The Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development (EMRTD), together with the IBI – International Brain Initiative (Cross-Cultural Working Group), will convene a side event on Data Sovereignty and the Right to Development for Indigenous Peoples.
The event is co-sponsored by the Permanent Mission of Mexico to the United Nations Office at Geneva, the Université de Genève (University of Geneva), the Haute école de santé (School of Health Sciences), the Geneva Health Forum (GHF), the Institute of Indigenous Peoples’ Health, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
This event will examine how Indigenous Data Sovereignty contributes to the realisation of the Right to Development of Indigenous Peoples in the context of emerging technologies. It will explore the risks posed by data extraction, artificial intelligence, neurotechnology and other digital innovations when Indigenous governance systems, knowledge frameworks and consent processes are excluded. Effective governance of emerging technologies requires approaches that centre Indigenous leadership and integrate diverse ways of knowing.
Objectives of the side event
This side event aims to foster a focused dialogue on Indigenous Data Sovereignty in the context of emerging technologies, and on the role of the Human Rights Council in promoting rights-based and culturally grounded approaches to technology and data governance, in order to inform the ongoing thematic study of the Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development on Artificial Intelligence, Cultural Rights, and the Right to Development.
Specific Objectives:
● Emphasise the importance of incorporating Indigenous ways of knowing and culturally sensitive frameworks into development and technology governance, as part of efforts to support the realisation of the right to development of Indigenous Peoples.
● Explore gaps in the meaningful inclusion of Indigenous worldviews in the integration of Indigenous innovations and new technologies into existing protection frameworks, while highlighting the benefits of co-developed innovation that respects Indigenous epistemologies, rights and sovereignty, including its potential to enhance social accountability and the effectiveness of new technologies.
● Discuss Indigenous Data Sovereignty frameworks that strengthen protections for the collection, storage, and sharing of data, addressing current practices that inadequately safeguard Indigenous knowledge.
● Identify culturally respectful approaches to improve data collection by, for and with Indigenous Peoples and ensure accurate statistical and artificial intelligence representation, while organising information according to Indigenous perspectives on health, mental health, and prevention.
● Address risks and identify potential advantages of innovation and technology for the well-being of Indigenous Peoples, with a view to contributing to the ongoing thematic study of the EMRTD.
