ˈdɪʤɪtᵊl ˌsɛlfdɪˌtɜːmɪˈneɪʃᵊn
Digital Self-Determination (DSD) refers to the principle and practice of empowering individuals and communities to exercise autonomy and control over their digital presence, particularly the data they generate. Rooted in the concepts of self-determination, dignity, and agency, DSD ensures that individuals can actively shape how their data is collected, stored, managed, and utilized, fostering both personal and societal benefits.
In an era marked by rapid datafication and technological advances, DSD aims to address critical imbalances such as data, information, and agency asymmetries. These imbalances often disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, limiting their ability to benefit from data-driven innovation while exposing them to potential exploitation.
Key Features:
- Agency and Autonomy: DSD focuses on granting individuals the capacity to make informed decisions about their data, aligning with their values, interests, and expectations.
- Collective Dimension: Beyond personal control, DSD acknowledges the collective impact of data, advocating for shared rights and protections within communities and societies.
- Context-Specific Implementation: Effective DSD practices are adaptable, considering diverse sociopolitical, technological, and cultural contexts to ensure equitable outcomes.
Applications:
- Data Governance: Policies and frameworks that prioritize individual and collective agency in the digital ecosystem.
- Technological Tools: Development of trusted data spaces and tools that enable ethical data sharing while protecting autonomy.
- Education and Awareness: Training data stewards and promoting digital literacy to empower communities.
Digital Self-Determination has the potential to redefine how societies approach data ethics, governance, and innovation. By embedding DSD principles into digital frameworks, we can foster trust, fairness, and inclusivity in the digital age.