Background

In today’s digital world, the creation and processing of data play an important role in the economy, governance, and people’s everyday lives. Collected data is used both to improve processes, optimize activities, and support decision-making. The growing ability to use data enables society to automate an increasing number of activities through digitalization that previously required human intervention. Continuous use of data also increases the need to manage data. There is a growing need to establish rules and clear processes for how data is used, while at the same time preserving both privacy and the freedom to process data. The public sector has a significant role in shaping data sharing and governance systems. It is also important to understand the factors and trends that will influence data use in the future.

Objective

The aim of the study is to provide an overview of the data economy, data usage, and the trends influencing data policy in Estonia; to develop possible future scenarios for data governance based on these trends; and to identify key decision points and policy choices for policymakers to guide the future development of the data sector.

Benefits

The study helps increase the use of data in governance and supports the development of informed, forward-looking policies in the data sector.

Project clients: Government Office of Estonia and the Foresight Centre (ASK)
Project implementers: LevelLab and the Institute of Baltic Studies
Study duration: 04/2022 – 12/2022