Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Policy

This book explores how Indigenous Peoples are demanding greater data sovereignty and challenging the ways governments have used Indigenous data to develop policies and programs. It highlights the enduring aspirations of self-determination and the potential for Indigenous data sovereignty to support human flourishing and protect against data-related risks and harms.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, governments across the globe have become increasingly reliant on data and data analytics to inform their policies and decision-making processes. However, this reliance has often come at the expense of Indigenous Peoples, who have historically been marginalized and excluded from the decision-making processes that directly impact their lives and communities.

At the core of Indigenous Peoples' demands for change lies their unwavering aspiration for self-determination over their institutions, resources, knowledge, and information systems. This desire for autonomy is rooted in the historical injustices and ongoing struggles that Indigenous Peoples have faced, including the loss of their lands, cultures, and traditional ways of life.

Recognizing the importance of data sovereignty, this book brings together contributions from experts and scholars from various parts of the world, including Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, North and South America, and Europe. Through their insights and experiences, the book offers a comprehensive account of the potential for Indigenous data sovereignty to support human flourishing and to protect against the ever-growing threats of data-related risks and harms.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the importance of Indigenous data in advancing social and economic development. Indigenous Peoples have unique perspectives and experiences that can contribute valuable insights to policymaking and program implementation. By granting Indigenous Peoples greater control over their data, governments can ensure that their voices are heard and that their needs are met.

Furthermore, Indigenous data sovereignty can play a crucial role in protecting against the misuse and exploitation of data. In the age of big data and artificial intelligence, there is a growing concern about the potential for data to be used for discriminatory purposes or to perpetuate harmful stereotypes. By granting Indigenous Peoples greater control over their data, they can ensure that their data is used in a respectful and ethical manner, and that it is not used to perpetuate harmful biases or discrimination.

Another important aspect of Indigenous data sovereignty is the importance of cultural heritage and intellectual property rights. Indigenous Peoples have a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is deeply intertwined with their data and information systems. By granting Indigenous Peoples greater control over their data, they can ensure that their cultural heritage is protected and preserved, and that their intellectual property rights are respected.

The book also highlights the challenges and barriers that Indigenous Peoples face in their pursuit of data sovereignty. One of the primary challenges is the lack of access to technology and infrastructure, which can make it difficult for Indigenous Peoples to collect, store, and analyze their data. Additionally, there are cultural and linguistic barriers that can make it difficult for Indigenous Peoples to engage with data and information systems, and to participate in the decision-making processes that impact their lives.

To address these challenges, the book offers a range of recommendations and strategies for promoting Indigenous data sovereignty. These recommendations include investing in technology and infrastructure that is accessible and affordable to Indigenous Peoples, providing training and education programs that empower Indigenous Peoples to engage with data and information systems, and promoting policies and practices that recognize and respect the rights of Indigenous Peoples to control their data and information.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about data sovereignty and the rights of Indigenous Peoples. By highlighting the potential for Indigenous data sovereignty to support human flourishing and to protect against the ever-growing threats of data-related risks and harms, the book provides a roadmap for promoting greater autonomy and self-determination for Indigenous Peoples in the digital age.

Weight: 471g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367567477