(9) While the goals and principles of Directive 95/46/EC remain valid, the implementation of data protection in the Union has not avoided fragmentation, legal uncertainty and the widespread perception that the protection of individuals is significantly compromised, particularly in connection with online activities. Differences in the degree of protection of individuals' rights and freedoms in the Member States - particularly the right to the protection of personal data - in connection with the processing of personal data may impede the free flow of personal data within the Union. They may therefore constitute an obstacle to the conduct of business at the Union level, distort competition, and hinder authorities from carrying out the obligations imposed on them by Union law. Differences in the degree of protection result from differences in the implementation and application of Directive 95/46/EC.