
The CARE Principles for Indigenous data governance
The CARE Principles for Indigenous Data Governance emphasise collective benefit, authority to control, responsibility, and ethics to safeguard Indigenous data rights while promoting equitable participation. These principles complement FAIR data guidelines, ensuring data use aligns with Indigenous values, self-determination, and innovation in research and governance.
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OVERVIEW
Introduction
The CARE Principles for Indigenous Data Governance address tensions between Indigenous data rights and the increasing prevalence of open data practices. These principles, rooted in Indigenous worldviews, prioritise people and purpose. They complement the FAIR Principles for scientific data management and focus on fostering innovation, governance, and self-determination among Indigenous communities.
Leveraging Indigenous rights for Indigenous data futures
Indigenous communities worldwide, representing over 370 million people across 90 countries, have raised concerns about data misuse and inequity. Historically, data collection and analysis often disregarded Indigenous values, leading to exploitation. The CARE Principles aim to reclaim control, ensuring that data ecosystems align with Indigenous governance frameworks, cultural practices, and ethical considerations.
Background
Indigenous Peoples retain sovereign rights over their knowledge, culture, and territories. However, colonial practices and globalisation have often undermined these rights. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) recognises these rights, advocating for self-determination and equitable data use. In response, Indigenous data sovereignty movements emerged, advocating for collective ownership and governance of data.
The emergence of Indigenous data sovereignty
Indigenous data sovereignty has gained relevance with the rise of big data and artificial intelligence. Most Indigenous data is controlled by non-Indigenous entities, creating barriers to equitable governance. Initiatives in countries such as New Zealand, Australia, and the United States have championed frameworks to reclaim control, ensuring data reflects Indigenous values and governance needs.
The Care principles
The CARE Principles—Collective Benefit, Authority to Control, Responsibility, and Ethics—were developed by Indigenous-led groups to address data governance challenges. These principles focus on ensuring that data serves the collective interests of Indigenous communities, aligns with their governance practices, and reflects ethical relationships.
Rationale
Mainstream data governance models often prioritise accessibility and usability over cultural considerations. The CARE Principles advocate for value-based relationships that respect Indigenous knowledge systems. These principles aim to shift data governance from consultation to collaboration, ensuring equitable outcomes.
Development
The CARE Principles were drafted during workshops led by the International Indigenous Data Sovereignty Interest Group. These sessions emphasised the need to complement FAIR Principles with a people- and purpose-oriented framework. Stakeholders from diverse backgrounds contributed to developing actionable guidelines for data governance.
Exposition
The CARE Principles guide actions across data ecosystems, ensuring innovation aligns with Indigenous self-determination. Each principle addresses specific governance needs, with mechanisms for collective benefit, control, and ethical use. Implementing all principles is crucial to achieving equitable data practices.
The CARE principles and their supporting concepts
The principles emphasise collective benefit, ensuring data supports inclusive development and community well-being. Indigenous nations must control data governance protocols, fostering self-determination. Ethical considerations focus on minimising harm and maximising benefits, with Indigenous communities determining acceptable data practices.
The CARE principles in action
Early adopters of the CARE Principles include the Research Data Alliance, Smithsonian Institution, and Open Data Charter. These organisations integrate CARE guidelines into policies, highlighting their relevance across research, government, and institutional settings.
Recommendations
To implement CARE Principles effectively, organisations should develop tools and policies that align with these guidelines. Engaging Indigenous leaders and communities in governance processes is essential. Additionally, integrating CARE with FAIR Principles can enhance data equity and innovation.
Conclusion
The CARE Principles complement FAIR guidelines by centring on people and purpose. They address historical inequities in data practices, promoting Indigenous self-determination and innovation. Financial professionals should consider these principles when engaging with Indigenous data, ensuring ethical, equitable, and value-driven practices.