G20 digital transformation task force releases latest policy brief on International Decade for Data
The brief highlights the fundamental role of accessible and responsibly re-used data in driving social and economic development, particularly in the context of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
The G20 Task Force 05 on Digital Transformation has unveiled a policy brief titled “Advocating an International Decade for Data under G20 Sponsorship.” This comprehensive document highlights the crucial role of data in driving social and economic development and fostering technological innovation, particularly in fields like AI. The brief identifies current data governance efforts as fragmented and operating in silos, which hampers significant progress in data stewardship. To address these issues, it proposes an International Decade for Data (IDD) from 2025 to 2035, sponsored by the G20, to unify and accelerate global data governance initiatives.
The policy brief stresses the importance of making data accessible and using it responsibly to catalyse social impact, innovation, economic growth, and research advancements. Despite data’s potential, existing governance processes lack effective coordination and interoperability, limiting their efficiency and hindering the pursuit of a sustainable and inclusive digital future. The establishment of the IDD aims to create a collaborative environment among diverse stakeholders—governments, private sector, civil society, and academia—facilitating a more integrated approach to data governance.
Central to this proposal are new institutional frameworks like data collaboratives, mechanisms such as digital social licences and sandboxes, and professional roles like data stewards. These frameworks and roles are intended to address the complexities of data governance and foster a more comprehensive and inclusive strategy. The G20, leveraging the momentum from the Global Digital Compact, can position itself as a leader in this effort, driving collective progress towards a more responsible and informed data-centric society.
Why does it matter?
The G20’s proposed International Decade for Data aims to bridge existing data governance gaps and promote a unified, cohesive approach. By encouraging cross-sector collaboration and implementing innovative frameworks, the initiative seeks to ensure that data governance facilitates social and economic development, technological innovation, and a sustainable, inclusive digital future.
