"Bridging the Data Divide: How Open Access Can Transform Transparency and Innovation"
Published: 2024-06-02In today’s connected world, having access to data is very important. It helps with transparency, human rights, and fair elections. However, not everyone has the same access to data. For example, regions like the EU and US have more data access than the Global South. This makes it hard to fight false information and for researchers to study social issues.
In South Africa, researchers struggle to get social media data from tech companies. Without this data, they can’t effectively tackle problems like disinformation, which can harm society. Despite these problems, there is hope for change. Many groups are working to improve data access through laws and international rules, aiming to help researchers in Africa and other parts of the Global South.
Open data means making data available for everyone to use and share without limits. Governments, organizations, and institutions often release datasets on public platforms. For example, the UK government has a website where it shares data on topics like healthcare and transportation. The World Bank also offers a platform with free access to global development data.
People should know about these open data efforts because they promote transparency, accountability, and new ideas. Open data lets citizens hold governments accountable, helps businesses create new products, and allows researchers to do important studies. Public support is key to the success of open data initiatives. When people see the benefits and trust the sources, they are more likely to support and use these initiatives.
For example, the City of Chicago started an open data portal with datasets on crime, public health, and transportation. At first, people were worried about privacy and data misuse. But as the city showed how open data improved public services and community involvement, public opinion changed. Residents began to see the value of having access to this information, and support for the initiative grew.
Another example is the European Union’s Open Data Portal, which makes data from EU institutions available to the public. This portal has increased transparency and sparked new ideas across member states. Many people see the benefits of having access to lots of information that can drive research, policy-making, and business growth.
By understanding and supporting open data initiatives, we can help create a fairer world. Access to data is crucial for progress in research and business. By pushing for better data access and staying informed through reliable sources, we can close the data gap and build a better future.
https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/opinionista/2024-06-02-social-media-firms-stonewall-efforts-to-monitor-sa-poll-disinformation/