Right to Explanation
Definition
The right to explanation concerns certain claims in automated decisions.
A shortened term for information, review, and protection claims that may arise from the GDPR and its interpretation in certain automated decisions. There is no universal, standalone right to a complete technical explanation as a general rule.
Simply explained
In certain cases, affected persons can request meaningful information and review; a general claim to all technical details does not follow from this.
Why it matters in practice
The term supports companies in selecting technologies sensibly, anchoring them organizationally, and using them competently.
Example from business
An affected person receives meaningful information about procedures and essential factors of an automated creditworthiness assessment in the relevant case.
Limits and pitfalls
- Promising a universal right to source code or any model justification without examining the respective case or mixing information, review, contestation, and trade secrets indiscriminately.
Origin & history
In particular, Articles 15 and 22 GDPR as well as the case law of the CJEU specify scope and conditions. The judgment in case C-203/22 was issued on 27 February 2025.
Use in mid-sized companies
- Possible application: An affected person receives meaningful information about procedures and essential factors of an automated credit assessment in the relevant case.
Frequently asked questions
What does the right to explanation mean?
A shortened term for information, review, and protection claims that may arise from the GDPR and its interpretation in certain automated decisions. There is no universal, independent right to a complete technical explanation as a matter of principle. What mistakes should be avoided? Promising a universal right to source code or any model justification, not examining the respective facts, or indiscriminately mixing information, review, contestation, and trade secrets.
Sources
Source checked on 10.10.2026. Editorial application examples are hypothetical; no evidence of real customer results.
Editorially reviewed on: