Data as a Development Issue

Friday, January 31, 2020, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Lindner Family Commons, Room 602

Elliott School of International Affairs, 1957 E Street, NW

The digital transformation of the global economy can help businesses and governments provide better services. But it also creates new risks for individuals whose personal data fuel these new digital products and services. 

To succeed in the data-driven economy, policymakers must establish clear rules about how data can be collected, used, and shared in a manner that simultaneously protects citizens from abuse and enables innovation, development, and growth. Striking this balance may be particularly difficult in lower income countries, where the diffusion of technology is often slower and less complete than in wealthier ones.

We are in the early phase of debating how governments should prepare for and manage the growing role of data in their economies and there is a limited consensus on best approaches. The aim of this free conference is to improve our shared understanding of the role of data governance for economic growth and development. 

Throughout the day, speakers will address how data can be used to stimulate development; how best to govern different types of data and data-driven services; and how global governance might support full and fair participation of lower income countries in the digital economy.

The event will be webcast at this link https://livestream.com/internetsociety/digitaltrade2.