evidence: Critical Issues in the New EU Regulation on Electronic Evidence in Criminal Proceedings The new EU Regulation on electronic evidence in criminal proceedings not only aims to enhance cross-border access to electronic evidence but also raises concerns regarding privacy, fundamental rights, and accountability. This article focuses on three key issues. [...] This article raised three cutting-edge issues of the new Regulation on electronic evidence in criminal matters, as they touch upon the most sensitive aspects of mutual judicial cooperation within the EU: the legal basis of the Regulation, fundamental principles of interstate cooperation, and protection of rights / effective remedies for the individuals concerned. While judicial cooperation between Member States appears to be deepening and taking new forms, it seems to be happening at the expense of rights and principles safeguarding the fundamental freedoms of individuals. The deepening of this cooperation does not serve as an end in itself but is only meaningful if it serves the freedoms of individuals. And this cannot be sidelined. In conclusion, efforts should be made to ensure that legal safeguards are in place to protect the rights of individuals subject to the European Production and Preservation Orders, including robust mechanisms for contesting the legality and necessity of measures, as well as clear provisions for legal protection within the enforcing state. Such reforms would contribute to a more balanced and rights-based approach within the system established by the Regulation.