Pacific Data Sovereignty Network - CONSULTATION DOCUMENT - Moana Research
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Pacific Data
Sovereignty Network
CONSULTATION
DOCUMENT
February 2021
Prepared by Moana Research
for the Pacific Data Sovereignty
Committee and Network
CONTENTS
8 Introduction 25 Facilitating relationships and
authentic engagement
10 What is “Pacific Data
Sovereignty” and 26 Collective action for
why do we need it? collective gains
12 Why do we need
26 Integrity and ethics
Pacific data
sovereignty? 26 Influencing and informing
policy and practice
13 What is ‘Pacific’
Data?
26 Collaborating with Pacific
communities
15 What is ‘Pacific Data
Sovereignty’?
27 Pacific data frameworks and
16 What has been relevant models for PDSN
achieved so far?
28 Recommendations & steps
21 Developing a Charter & going forward. 36 Background
Guidelines Document 37 Roles and
29 Steps going forward. Responsibilities
22 Global Indigenous Data Alliance
(Global Indigenous Data
30 References: 37 Membership
Alliance, 2016)
38 Function
22 Table 1. FAIR Principles
31 Appendix 1 - Pacific Data
Sovereignty Committee 38 Meetings
members
23 Table 2. CARE Principles 38 Confidentiality
24 Māori Data Sovereignty: 36 Appendix 2 - Terms of
38 Conflict of Interest
Guiding Principles (Te Reference for PDS Committee
Mana Raraunga, 2015) 38 Reimbursement
36 PACIFIC DATA
25 Pacific peoples: rights, SOVEREIGNTY NETWORK 38 Review Provisions
valued and values,
interests and knowledge. 36 Purpose of the group
25 Authority and Autonomy
for Pacific
2 3
DR ANA TUAFE'ULUNGAKI
“Pacific people must take ownership of who we are, and
what we are, and what we call our own. Our data, our Pacific
heritage, our new creations. The sources of our liberations
are alive in us, in the form of our languages and core values
of our Pacific societies and especially our Christian faith.
From these, we can create the tools and institutions that can
set us free and allow us to thrive once more as proud and
independent daughters and sons of the living God.
In taking responsibility for our own survival and growth
in the choices we make we gain meaning and worth. For
the seeds that we will sow in our children today will be
watered with the vibrant colors of our truths, nourished
in the laughter of our triumphs and the tears and blood
of our struggles. The power of ideas will fuel our survival
and transformation. Ideas weathered in action. For in our
Pacific way, our role is not to contemplate the universe but to
transform it.
Data Sovereignty is not just about ownership of the
collection, storage, retrieval, accessibility, application, and
dissemination of individual groups and cultural information.
It is about taking charge of our destiny. It allows for an
understanding of who we are, where we came from, and
where we aspire to go.
We are on a crusade not just to create a better future for our
Pacific people, but to give our children and people something
grander, something worthy of their commitment skills and
time.”
Dr ‘Ana Tuafe’ulungaki, Pacific Data Sovereignty Seminar;
Manukau; November 2019
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INTRODUCTION THE MAIN SECTIONS OF THIS DOCUMENT
ARE AS FOLLOWS:
This scoping document presents information to guide the consultation on a newly established Section 1: What is Pacific Data Sovereignty, and why
Pacific Data Sovereignty Network (PDSN). The inaugural PDSN committee members and
network members actively advocate for Pacific Data Sovereignty at a strategic level, and on a do we need it?
regional to national scale. Section one will reflect on the critical question: Why is Pacific Data Sovereignty important?
Further, laying out key concepts such as:
This group strives towards a unified voice and collective guardianship of data and information 1. What is “Pacific Data?”
regarding Pacific peoples living in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
2. What is meant by “Pacific Data Sovereignty?.”
These fundamental lines of inquiry establish a basis to the purpose and basis of this
The following information reflects the relevant knowledge and insights to date. This
important work.
consultation document is informed by the 2019 Pacific Data Sovereignty Seminars (appendix
3), PDSN Committee meetings, workshops, and deliberations.
There is an expectation that these sections will be built upon or amended during the Section 2: What has been achieved, so far?
consultation process. Thus, iterations will be made as per directed by PDSN Committee and Section two will consider the relevant actions and insights to date. Key findings from the
network consultations findings. 2019 Pacific Data Sovereignty Network Seminars will be considered. This includes the
recommendations that emerged from the seminar plenaries and workstreams, such as the
We seek your feedback and acknowledge that the process for exploring the following sections, ethnic specific forums of Talanoa.
are iterative for collective input.
Section 3: Pacific Data Sovereignty Network (PDSN)
guiding Principles.
Section three introduces the PDSN Guiding principles. Your feedback regarding the guiding
principles is paramount. Throughout this consultation framework, particularly this section,
questions and considerations will be asked of you. If you can kindly contribute your
thoughts, perspectives, understandings, and critique.
Section 4: Recommendations and steps going forward.
The last section outlines the recommendations and actionable items going forward to
progress the PDSN purpose and aspirations.
Your feedback is appreciated and will be collated and reviewed by the PDSN to enhance
this shared document and strengthen the content. The amendments will be implemented
accordingly. Further, up to date versions will be socialized and circulated to the network
via the PDSN website.
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WHAT IS
"Pacific Data
Sovereignty"
and why do we need it?
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Throughout history, Pacific people have moved within and across nations as expert
WHY DO WE NEED PACIFIC navigators of the sea, exploring and migrating across oceans. Accordingly, their resources,
culture, and philosophies of the world were never restricted to Island boundaries but have
been traced wherever Pacific people reside (Naepi, 2015; Thaman, 2003).
DATA SOVEREIGNTY? Hau’ofa (1993) accentuates this by noting that the “Ocean is in us,” emphasizing the
importance of the value system and knowledge that Pacific people hold. It is these values that
are usually passed on from one generation to the next (Hau'ofa, 1993).
Of Melanesian, Micronesian, and Polynesian ancestry, Pacific people have lived in New
Setting the context Zealand for over a century. In this context, the Pacific is defined as those who identify as being
Pacific people are a unique population within Aotearoa New Zealand and across the diaspora. of Melanesian, Micronesian, or Polynesian ethnicity. Pacific people are a unique population
They are often and consistently researched. The framings and findings about Pacific Peoples who are often researched (McPherson, Spoonley & Anae, 2001; Naepi, 2015; Health Research
have significantly been portrayed through a deficit framework and etic ‘outsider’ perspectives Council of New Zealand, 2014).
(Tualaulelei & McFall-McCaffery, 2019). Findings often portray Pacific people from a deficit framework. Although this is pertinent, the
Despite centuries of cultural and traditional oratory, generations of storytelling, strong accountability to respond to these findings is equally as, if not more imperative, especially
transmissions of knowledge, and expansive datasets of knowing, believing, and experiencing; when considering how the significance of data is a potential solution in addressing the ethnic
Pacific peoples have not always held the pen detailing the memoirs of their migration stories, specific inequities that Pacific experience.
journeying through foreign lands, and expressing past histories, present realities, and future
WHAT IS 'PACIFIC' DATA?
aspirations, as People of the Pacific (Suaalii-Sauni & Fulu-Aiolupotea, 2014).
Yet our oratory traditions continue to remind us of the empowerment that stems from being
the tellers of our own stories, the advocacy and strength-based lenses that is inherently
applied when we pen our own experiences, and the rigorous accuracy and authentic Deriving from the 2019 Pacific Data Sovereignty seminar and committee talanoa; Pacific data
representation when we center knowledge about us, from primarily us (Naepi, 2015). is multi-faceted, complex, dynamic, evolving and exists in and throughout systems and Va
That is why Pacific data sovereignty is so important. As the rightful stewards of the stories (relational space that relates) (Airini, Anae, Mila-Schaff, Coxon, Mara & Sanga, 2010; Moana
and testimonies, Pacific people have the right to govern the collection, ownership, and Research & Ministry for Pacific Peoples, 2019).
application of data about Pacific communities and peoples in Aotearoa New Zealand.
The data formats are inclusive of digital data and data as knowledge and information. Pacific Data exists across terrains residing in traditional knowledge, scientific
It encompasses data, information, and knowledge about Pacific individuals, collectives, knowledge, digital spaces, and spiritual realms, which narrates a story of Pacific
entities, lifeways, cultures, and resources (Moana Research & Ministry for Pacific Peoples, peoples, and builds on known or assumed facts (Kukutai & Taylor, 2016; Moana
2019). Research & Ministry for Pacific Peoples, 2019).
The challenge, however, persists, in that Pacific people alongside other
indigenous peoples have not been consistently engaged, as the shift towards
open data and open science occurs (Global Indigenous Data Alliance, 2016; With respect to the inherent rights that we as
Kukutai & Taylor, 2016). Pacific hold - Pacific Data is:
As Pacific, it is categorically true, that within Aotearoa; we are not indigenous
peoples, rather children of the migration. As statistics have illustrated, we are
migrants facing unique inequities and adversity. For this transformative work 1. A living taonga that reflects and derives from our history presents realities
to take place, the Pacific Data Sovereignty Network aims to guide discussions and future aspirations.
and areas of the decision-making process (Moana Research & Ministry for Pacific
2. Pacific Data considers and values the history of Pacific information,
Peoples, 2019).
knowledge, and data. It ought to be conceptualized and understood from emic
As such, Pacific Data Sovereignty is crucial for Pacific people as data is a potential insider Pacific perspectives, therefore within Pacific frameworks. Further, for
solution and strategic channel to mobilise Pacific people’s stories to create better some – data can only be categorically ‘Pacific’ if collated, analysed, accessed,
outcomes. PDSN has the potential to unite Pacific peoples to lead the charge managed, and shared by Pacific peoples through a Pacific lens. This upholds the
for data that advocates for equity, mediates Pacific solutions, and enables a cultural filter that is embedded in traditional values and knowledge systems.
reclamation in our Pacific oratory and storytelling.
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WHAT IS 'PACIFIC DATA
3. Pacific data refers to data produced by Pacific or that is about Pacific and the
environments we have relationships with. These include coverage of Pacific Data. However,
Pacific data is not insular, and there are existing bodies of data that are not by or for Pacific,
but still of relevance.
• Data from Pacific can include, but is not limited to – traditional cultural
information, oral literature, ancestral knowledge, Pacific epistemology, language,
SOVEREIGNTY'?
‘Nothing is about Us – Pacific Peoples – without us – Pacific Peoples.’
tribal histories and stories, data from Pacific entities.
• Data about Pacific can include but is not limited to information collated by Pacific Data Sovereignty acknowledges that diversity exists across Pacific peoples and cultures. Even so,
across the unique differences, there are elements and ties that unify us as the People of the Moana.
Government agencies and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) such as
commercial data, demographics, legal, health and social data. Pacific Data Sovereignty is understanding our ancestral heritage while upholding the ethos that ‘Nothing
is about Us – Pacific Peoples – without us – Pacific Peoples.’ This ensures that the lineage of Pacific Data
• Data about our resources and environment ay include information about land paves its paths and linkages back to Pacific ancestors and the generations following to present-day Pacific
history, migration stories and voyages across the diaspora. peoples (Moana Research & Ministry for Pacific Peoples, 2019).
Te Mana Raraunga – a group of Māori researchers have identified that being unified within the workforce
is challenging but necessary to establish and solidify Indigenous Data Sovereignty efforts (Te Mana
4. Data includes digital spaces and platforms that are about people and resources. Raraunga, n.d.; Kukutai & Taulor, 2016). Thus, seeking and protecting Pacific data will not be an easy
Pacific data is knowledge and information that influences Pacific lives both at the micro – voyage to navigate. Yet the capacity and capability of our Pacific peoples to obtain governance over
individualistic to macro – collective levels. their own data will be transformative for decision making, policy, systems change, the privileging of our
voices and frameworks in spaces that may have traditionally resisted it or misrepresented our stories and
perspectives (Moana Research & Ministry for Pacific Peoples, 2019).
5. Pacific Data includes but is not limited to: Beyond the transformations, it is the right of Pacific Peoples to take ownership over their own data, what
happens to it, how it is collated, used, analysed, presented, and disseminated.
• Data from organisations and businesses
As the world moves increasingly to open data environments which are subject to the laws of the nation
• Data about Pacific that is used to describe or compare Pacific peoples which it is stored; Pacific Data Sovereignty is both a welcomed challenge and an aspiration, where the
• Data about Pacific that emerges from research network will advocate for ‘Our Data, Our Sovereignty, Our Future.’
Pacific data matters as it may detail the problems we face as Pacific, but also emergent from it is the
solutions that will be effective. This is reminiscent of the Samoan Proverb - e fofo e le alamea le alamea;
For the scope of the Pacific Data Sovereignty Network, Pacific Data will firstly the solutions lie within our communities.
refer to Pacific in Aotearoa New Zealand. However, an aspiration and future Pacific data sovereignty needs but will also construct social connectedness between communities,
direction will be to facilitate and foster partnerships with Island nations, to organisations, and agencies. The unifying of Pacific people, followed by identifying and playing on the
create authentic engagement, and progress the Pacific Data Sovereignty praxis, strengths of each person and group, will enable progress.
together.
Pacific data sovereignty is therefore focused on:
• Rights and responsibilities to determine the means of collection, access, analysis, management and
dissemination of Pacific data or data deriving from Pacific data – inclusive of historical, existing, and
impending datasets.
• Producing information from and/or about Pacific peoples is driven by epistemologies, Pacific cultural
1. Do you agree with the definitions for 'Pacific Data'? (Yes/No_ values, Pacific traditional knowledge systems and that Pacific people maintain these.
a. Why or why not? • Pacific peoples understanding of what data exists, the sources, access pathways, data management,
the purpose of collection, how it was used and will be used in future. This will allow for Pacific stewardship
2. Are there relevant concepts or definitions of 'Pacific Data' that of data that is enhancing and not destroying the vitality and wellbeing of Pacific communities and families.
can further this working definition? (open text)? • Acknowledging the source of knowledge and from where data derives. Strategic and legal recognition of
the Pacific as stewards of the interests that the data represents. This may entail authority and ownership of
data bout Pacific, Pacific values, and Pacific interests. Ergo, data is curated and cared for by Pacific people.
1. Do you agree with the provided definition of Pacific Data Sovereignty? What is
missing/would you change?
2. What aspirations do you have for Pacific data sovereignty — short-term, medium-
term and long-term?
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WHAT HAS BEEN
The PDSN Committee
The PDSN is led by a Committee consisting of twelve independent representatives from across the
Pacific network and ex-officio members representing government agencies such as the Ministry for
Pacific Peoples and Statistics New Zealand (appendix 1).
Each PDSN Committee member offers rich experience, knowledge, and a passion to ensure collective
ACHIEVED SO
efforts and understandings towards Pacific Data Sovereignty, in which Pacific data ought to and is
subject to Pacific governance, and aspirations.
The world is transitioning rapidly into an increasingly open data environment with enormous
amounts of data yielded across diverse platforms at a rapid rate. Because of this, the PDSN advocate
that the rights and interests of Pacific peoples within data is protected, promoted, and honored.
FAR? PDSN Secretariat
Moana Research has volunteered the secretariat functions for the PDSN, helping to facilitate the
following activities:
• Coordination of PDSN Committee meetings.
ABOUT THE PACIFIC DATA
• Establishing and maintaining PDSN communications through an e-newsletter and webpage.
• Consultation and development of a Pacific Data Sovereignty Charter.
SOVEREIGNTY NETWORK • Facilitation of meetings and seminars for the PDSN
The 2019 inaugural Pacific Data Sovereignty
Network Seminar
The Pacific Data Sovereignty Network (PDSN) was established on the 29th of
November 2019 during an inaugural Seminar held in Manukau, Auckland. The
seminar sought to gain understanding and discuss perspectives of the concept of
Pacific Data Sovereignty. The seminar provided a forum to bring together interested
individuals and organisations to promote and discuss the concept of ‘Pacific Data
Sovereignty.’
The participants included health workers, teachers, social workers, policymakers,
managers, researchers, funders and planners, tertiary institutions, students
in midwifery, nursing, medicine, allied health and other health programmes,
community health workers, childbirth facilitators, allied workforce, and community
leaders.
The objectives of the seminar included:
1. Talanoa about the importance of collecting, obtaining, and protecting data.
2. Fostering open conversations among delegates to progress collective thoughts
and ideas on Data Sovereignty for Pacific People
3. To aggregate and unify health, education, social development, and other
stakeholders who engage with Pacific communities.
4. Further, to discuss the importance and considerations in the Pacific framework.
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Ethnic specific workstreams for talanoa The responses and talanoa are as follows:
Regarding Pacific Data Sovereignty, it is important to know and understand the diversity across all • Pacific representation is integral and “there needs to be Tongans at the table to various
Pasifika, and what unifies us. question variables.” Tongans can mobilise the Tongan community. Building capacity and capability
in different areas, among Tongan professionals is therefore important.
It was important to recognise the cultural expertise present during the seminars and provide a
space to acknowledge the uniqueness that each group brought to the table. • Quantitative and qualitative methods and data have equal importance among one another and
are complimentary. It requires skills to ask questions and get a response for data. Qualitative is
During the 2019 inaugural Pacific Data Sovereignty Seminars, the delegates participated in ethnic- more time consuming, and investment is needed.
specific workstreams for talanoa. The ethnic-specific workshops included Tongan, Samoan, and
the realm counties of Niue, Cook Island and Tokelau. • It is difficult at times to obtain our own data “I think the thing is Pacific NGOs (Non-
Governmental Organisations) and government agencies are so defensive when it comes to data,
Samoan Workshop and its ownership. It’s so hard to pull data out from other agencies and it gets toxic. I’m hoping we
can seek that out. We have to understand the system.”
The Samoan workshop focused on:
• Ethnic specific data is important as it can reflect the heterogeneity across Pacific groups and to
A. What is your understanding of Pacific Data Sovereignty? read data and understand data specific to Tongan people is advantageous.
B. And How can we understand Pacific Data Sovereignty from a Samoan perspective? • Action points which were discussed included:
• Set up a Tongan database.
The responses and talanoa are as follows:
• Use the database to mobilise Tongan communities to connect, unite and talanoa.
• Pacific Data Sovereignty is similar to constructs and concepts within the Treaty of
Waitangi. Relevantly, the terms and meanings of ‘sovereignty’ and ‘ownership’ still • Duty of care - we must not exploit our communities for the sake of evidence gathering.
leaves the question of: who owns the data? Protection is required among our communities.
• There needs to be a literal translation of ‘sovereignty’ in the Samoan language.
There may be different interpretations across the island and varying views of
Realm Countries Workshop (Niue, Cook Islands and
sovereignty. The correct definitions and conceptualizations of sovereignty will assist Tokelau)
in effective data collection and future research.
The Realm Countries workshop focused on:
• As we generously share knowledge – how do we balance generosity with
A. Why is it important to protect data for Pacific nations?
protection? What are the new interventions in gathering data and retaining it?
The responses of the talanoa are as follows:
• Data is our identity. Further action points from today are to begin the
conversations about what are effective ways about protecting data? How do we • It is important to look at the aspects of collecting data and protecting data. Are these efficient?
protect ourselves from being exploited via data? What can be changed? What needs to be changed? It would be great to use data to link the genetics
behind our people.
• At times, the need to challenge the system is vital. There needs to be questions to
the policies and laws. Therefore, representation of Samoan people at government • The way we are currently using data, is it benefitting our people? For example, as we identify
level positions is integral for Pacific data sovereignty. data from education systems, can we use this information to improve education outcomes within
schools. A look at the number of ‘underachieving’ students among Maori and Pacific, does not
• Both qualitative and quantitative data is vital for data collection and the need
necessarily tell us the ‘why’ behind it.
to identify which one is more beneficial to our Samoan people could help further
effective researching. • How are we using data to enhance the livelihoods of our population? It is vital to look at how
data can be collected, who is collecting it and whether it is a correct reflection into questions/
Tongan Workshop concerns for Pacific people.
The Tongan workshop focused on: • As government agencies collect data for various causes, how effective are these agencies in
engaging with and gaining a response from Pacific families. It is concurrent how Pacific people
A. Potentially, what would Tongan peoples potentially like to explore in the space of ‘tell you what you want to hear’ rather than what is necessarily accurate. Why is this the case?
Pacific Data Sovereignty? Language barriers? Difference in understanding? All important aspects to identify and make
changes towards.
• It is important to be mindful of the cultural biases and measures taken to attain data. When we
look at the national census, why is the response rate from Pacific families exceptionally low?
• The most critical issue is how we can better address the deficit present within data sovereignty.
18 How can we move forward from here? What is classified as a great need? 19
18 19DEVELOPING
Following the seminar, key recommendations were
proposed. The following table will present the
progress update alongside the respective seminar
recommendations.
2019 PDSN Seminar Recommendations
Recommendation one:
Establishment of a Charter and Guidelines. As
Actions, progress, and achievements to date
Initiated and ongoing
This document derives from these mentioned
A CHARTER &
GUIDELINES
per informed by this consultation framework recommendations and outlines what has been
and process. progressed following the seminar.
Recommendation two: Initiated and ongoing
To elevate the voices of Pacific peoples, From the outset, the development of the guiding
families, community groups, researchers, principles and key tenets of the PDSN are as per
DOCUMENT
and organisations across NZ in data and informed by the Pacific committee and network
information processes. members. Further, ongoing engagement and
partnerships will be established and ongoing to
ensure that Pacific voices are included.
Recommendation three: Initiated and ongoing
To promote opportunities in data sovereignty Correspondence and engagement with Statistics
– including roles and membership on Statistics New Zealand has been initiated, including
NZ data access and use processes. representation from Statistics New Zealand on the
PDSN committee.
Recommendation four: Completed and ongoing
To facilitate forums for talanoa through The inaugural Pacific Data Sovereignty Seminar
network and governance meetings, such as took place in 2019. There are plans for ongoing
an established committee and regular cycle forums for Talanoa. Further, committee meetings
meetings. have been consistently ongoing, and will continue.
Recommendation five: Initiated and ongoing
To connect with the wider Pacific region to
ensure Pacific ethnic-specific approaches are
integrated.
1. Do you agree with the recommendations so far – why/why not?
2. Do you think we should maintain regular PDSN meetings? If so, how
often?
3. Would you be interested in Pacific ethnic-specific data sovereignty
meetings?
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21Developing a charter The FAIR Guiding principles are for scientific data management and stewardship as published in
Scientific Data. The principles emphasis machine-actionability (I.e., the capacity of computational
The Pacific Data Sovereignty Network acknowledges the significant undertakings by the Global systems to find, access, interoperate, and reuse data with non or minimal human intervention)
Indigenous Data Alliance (GIDA) and Te Mana Raraunga: Māori Data Sovereignty network. because humans increasingly rely on computational support to deal with the data because of the
increase in volume, complexity, and creation speed of data.
These Kaupapa are synergistically committed to advancing Indigenous Data Sovereignty and
governance through the assertion of Indigenous People rights and interests in data. Alongside
GIDA and Te Mana Raraunga, the Pacific Data Sovereignty Network advocate for data for the self- Table 2. CARE Principles
determined wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples, through reinforcing the rights to engage in decision
making in accordance with Indigenous and cultural values, as well as collective interests.
Data ecosystems shall be designed and function to enable Indigenous
The following section will:
Collective Peoples to derive benefit from the data. Collective Benefit includes
• Briefly reflect on guiding principles of the Global Indigenous Data Alliance and Māori Data Benefit inclusive development and innovation, improved governance, and
Sovereignty Network. citizen engagement, for equitable outcome.
• Propose iterative guiding principles for Pacific Data Sovereignty. The guiding principles in this Indigenous data governance enables Indigenous Peoples and governing
section have been yielded from the Pacific Data Sovereignty Seminars, deliberations and talanoa bodies to determine how Indigenous Peoples, as well as Indigenous
between inaugural committee members and existing literature. Authority lands, territories, resources, knowledge, and geographical indicators,
Global Indigenous Data Alliance (Global Indigenous Data Alliance, 2016) to Control are represented and identified within data. Critical elements in
‘Authority to Control’ includes: Recognizing rights and interests, data of
The existent principles that have emerged within open data movement are focused on governance, governance of data
characteristics of data that has the capacity and function to:
Those working with Indigenous data have a responsibility to share how
(1) Increase data sharing between and among entities, and
the data is used to support Indigenous Peoples’ self-determination
(2) Consequently, and consistently ignore power imbalances and historical contexts. and collective benefit. Accountability requires meaningful and openly
Responsibility available evidence of these efforts and the benefits accruing to
The focus on increasing data sharing solely generates tension and apprehension for Indigenous Indigenous Peoples. The critical elements in ‘Responsibility’ includes:
Peoples, who are asserting greater control over the application and use of Indigenous data and for positive relationships, for expanding capability and capacity and for
Indigenous Knowledge for the collective benefit (GDIA, 2020). Indigenous languages and worldviews
The indigenous data governance principles of Be FAIR and CARE are tabulated below:
Critical elements in ‘Ethics’ includes: Indigenous Peoples’ rights and
wellbeing should be the primary concern at all stages of the data
Ethics life cycle and across the data ecosystem. Critical elements in ‘Ethics’
Table 1. FAIR Principles includes: non-maleficence, maximizing benefits, for justice, for future
use.
Firstly, (re)using data needs to be ‘findable.’ Metadata and
Findable data should be easy to find for computers and humans.
Once the user finds the required data, she/he needs to
Accessible know how they can be accessed, including authentication
and authorization.
The data usually needs to be integrated with other data.
Interoperable The data needs to interoperate with applications or
workflows for analysis, storage, and processing.
The goal of FAIR is to optimize the reuse of data. To
Reusable achieve this, metadata and data should be well-described
to be replicated and/or combined in different settings.
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23Māori Data Sovereignty: Guiding Principles (Te Mana For consultation: Pacific Data Sovereignty Network –
Raraunga, 2015) Guiding Principles
Te Mana Raraunga recognises the need to advance discussions about Māori Data Sovereignty The Pacific Data Sovereignty network acknowledges the need to progress talanoa about Pacific
at both governance and operational levels. The work of Te Mana Raraunga will support the Data Sovereignty at both a governance and operational level. The iterative guiding principles are
realisation of rangatiratanga, kotahitanga, manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga. as follows:
1. Pacific People: Our interest, rights, values, and knowledge
The Mana-Mahi framework (Governance-Operations) are 2. Authority and autonomy for Pacific
based on: 3. Facilitating relationships and authentic engagement
4. Collective action for collective equity gains
Mana 5. Integrity and Ethics
• Whanaungatanga – denoting that Māori thinking and philosophy relationships are 6. Informing policy and practice
between man, Te Ao Turoa (natural world) and Taha Wairua (spirit).
7. Collaborating with Pacific communities
• Rangatiratanga – speaks to the hapū, iwi/Māori aspiration for self-determination, to be
in control of our own affairs and to influence those taking place within our iwi boundaries. Pacific peoples: rights, valued and values, interests and
This is especially true for activities that have the potential to affect our people (ngā uri
whakaheke) or our environment (whenua/moana). Rangatiratanga can be expressed through knowledge.
leadership and participation. Pacific people are valued, and Pacific values are central. Integrally, Pacific data needs to protect,
• Kotahitanga - Speaks to a collective vision and unity of purpose while recognising the promote, and honor the interests and aspirations of Pacific people, therefore Pacific people need
mana of rangatira from individual hapū and iwi. The foundations of kotahitanga can be found to derive benefit or equitable outcomes from the data.
in our whakapapa and reflected in our relationships with each other. This makes space to
identify collective aspirations for indigenous data sovereignty and to advocate for activities Authority and Autonomy for Pacific
that benefit all Māori. Pacific peoples and groups are the key decision-makers, with the authority and autonomy, to
decide how Pacific people, land and territories, resources, knowledge, narratives and experiences
Mahi and other indicators, are represented within data.
• Whakapapa: Evidences those linkages and identifies the nature of relationships. Pacific people are the rightful custodians and stewards of their own information. To re-
• Manaakitanga: This can be expressed through the responsibility to provide hospitality and iterate ‘it is not about us – Pacific Peoples – without us – Pacific Peoples.’ To steward and
protection to whānau, hapū, iwi, the community, and the environment. The foundations of enact the custodianship of our Taonga of data, requires authority to control data through
governance.
manaakitanga rely on the ability of Māori to live as Māori, to access quality education, to have
good health, to have employment opportunities and to have livable incomes.
Facilitating relationships and authentic engagement
• Kaitiakitanga: Speaks to the hapū, iwi responsibility to be an effective steward or guardian
and relates to actions that ensure a sustainable future for all people. Underpinning our The 2019 seminar talanoa emphasized that the network needs to create more room
for authentic engagement and effective relationships to progress the Pacific Data
existence is the need to protect and enhance Māori knowledge and practices, to strengthen
Sovereignty work. Pacific people are collective and communal inherently. Thus, to
whānau, hapū and iwi and to create sustainable futures.
facilitate relationships and authentic engagement includes identifying and leveraging
from the capability and capacity of Pacific people as our relationships and networking
is important. The relationships are key for collective actions and collective gains, this
includes mobilizing our Pacific communities as we accept our purpose and understand
that we have a Duty of Care to our Pacific people to continue the momentum and uphold
each other to continue the narrative that “nothing is about us, without us.”
Further, working with non-Pacific allies who understand our work to progress Pacific Data
Sovereignty.
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25Collective action for collective gains
There must be a collective benefit and reciprocity, for Pacific peoples and communities, when
PACIFIC DATA FRAMEWORKS
AND RELEVANT MODELS FOR
collecting data. Consequently, the wellbeing and beneficence of Pacific peoples, such as wellbeing,
should be the primary priority across data life cycles and the data ecosystem.
There is a responsibility, therefore, for stewards and custodians of Pacific data to minimize harm,
maximize beneficence, uphold justice and equity for Pacific peoples, and ensure that all future use
of Pacific data generates collective gains. PDSN
Further, data ecosystems need to be designed and function to empower Pacific people to derive
benefit from the data. Collective gains include Pacific being included in development, innovation, Pacific frameworks and epistemologies need to be understood and applied to data
improved Pacific governance and Pacific engagement for Pacific to experience equitable outcomes. that is by and for Pacific. The following frameworks have been discussed during
the seminar and committee meetings. We anticipate on the PDSN website, will be a
space for relevant models, frameworks, and guidelines to be uploaded and updated.
Integrity and ethics
There is a responsibility and the requirement of the quality and integrity of Pacific data and its
collection. Ethics includes Pacific protocol and guidelines for practice. Further Pacific People’s
rights and wellbeing is the primary concern at all stages of the data life cycle and across the data The frameworks and models includes:
ecosystem namely, non-maleficence, maximizing benefits, for justice, for future use.
1. Fonofale Model
Influencing and informing policy and practice 2. Tivaevae Framework
A key principle of the Pacific Data Sovereignty Network is influencing and informing policy and 3. Kakala Model
practice related to data to assert Pacific rights and interests. This includes advocacy and activism
to ensure that data for and about Pacific is protected at levels from policy to practice and 4. Fa’afaletui Model
implementation. Further, practice should include designing, developing, and maintaining Pacific 5. Turanga Māori Framework
data infrastructure and security systems.
6. Pacific Health Research Council Guidelines
Collaborating with Pacific communities 7. KEEP “Knowledge, Engagement, Enablement and Performance” are significant
Pacific communities and organizations are integral for Pacific Data Sovereignty as there is existing stages in gathering data among Pacific communities.
work and commitments to establish Pacific Data Sovereignty. The connections between Pacific
peoples will enable collective action, as per above, but also the sharing of ideas, strategies,
resources regarding data, and the attainment of a common purpose.
Can you identify any other relevant
models and frameworks that will be
1. Do you agree with these principles? Are there any principles
missing/not appropriate? useful and effective when considering
Pacific Data Sovereignty?
2. Which principles align strongly with global indigenous
principles?
3. Are there any principles that are specific to Pacific people
living in New Zealand? Migrant populations versus indigenous?
Pacific peoples in NZ versus living in the Pacific?
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27STEPS GOING FORWARD.
RECOMMENDATIONS The following section will report on these recommendations, indicate the progress made to date, and
consider further steps going forward, to progress this significant work.
1. Establish a Pacific Data Sovereignty Network
A link here can be accessed to register your interest and become a member of the Pacific Data
& STEPS GOING Sovereignty Network. We intend to keep you updated and maintain the connections after your
registration.
2. Organizations to signal their interest in supporting a Pacific Data Sovereignty Network.
If your organization is interested in supporting the Pacific Data Sovereignty Network or wish to
collaborate and partner – please email (insert admin email account for PDSN).
FORWARD. 3. Consider the development of a Charter or a guiding document to outline an agreed
definition/description of Pacific Data Sovereignty and the key principles for data and
information about Pacific peoples.
This document hopes to facilitate this recommendation. Please provide feedback here or email
feedback to (insert admin email account for PDSN).
4. Consider the difference between Pacific Data Sovereignty indigenous to Pacific nations
and that which is related to the diaspora in New Zealand.
This consultation process will clarify on definitional and diasporic parameters between indigenous to
Pacific nations and Pacific residing in New Zealand. We thank you for your feedback.
5. Consider the establishment of Pacific Data Sovereignty Network branches. For
example, a separate Tongan branch, Samoan branch, and the like to allow for exploration
of Pacific Data Sovereignty concepts within Pacific-specific languages, cultures, and
contexts.
This is an ongoing and future consideration and will be progressed parallel to or after the
formation and establishing phase for the Pacific Data Sovereignty Network.
6. Seek relevant resourcing/funding for sustaining PDS Network activities
and goals. Pacific-specific languages, cultures, and contexts.
As the network becomes more established and activities arise from goals set by the
network, funding will be sought from relevant sources to maintain and progress this
work.
1. In reflection of all that we have covered in this consultation
document, what actionable items or recommendations would you
add to 'steps going foward'?
2. Are there any other comments or considerations that you
would like the PDSN to consider?
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29REFERENCES: APPENDIX 1
Airini, Anae, M., Mila-Schaff, K., Coxon, E., Mara, D., & Sanga, K. (2010). Teu Le Va— PACIFIC DATA SOVEREIGNTY COMMITTEE
Relationships across research and policy in Pasifika education. Wellington, New Zealand: New
Zealand Ministry of Education.
Global Indigenous Data Alliance. (2016). CARE Principles of Indigenous Data Governance. Dr El-Shadan Tautolo
https://www.gida-global.org/care After completing a Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry) and
a Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Science, Dr El-Shadan
Hau’ofa, E. (1993). Our sea of islands. In E. Waddell, V. Naidu, & E. Hau’ofa (Eds), A new Tautolo became interested in public health after taking an
Oceania: Rediscovering our sea of islands (pp.126–139). Suva, Fiji: University of the South elective paper on the subject.
Pacific. This prompted El-Shadan to switch career paths and
completed a Master of Health Science in Pacific Health at the
Health Research Council of New Zealand. (2014). Pacific health research guidelines. Auckland, University of Auckland.
New Zealand: Author.
El-Shadan then came to AUT to complete a Doctor of
Kukutai, T., & Taylor, J. (Eds.). (2016). Indigenous Data Sovereignty: Toward an agenda. Acton Philosophy as the recipient of a Health Research Council (HRC)
ACT, Australia: ANU Press. Retrieved February 3, 2021, from http://www.jstor.org/stable/j. Pacific PhD Scholarship, which he graduated from in 2011.
ctt1q1crgf El-Shadan's PhD thesis looked at the health and wellbeing
of a cohort of over 800 Pacific fathers. He investigated their
Macpherson, C., Spoonley, P., & Anae, M. (2001). Pacific peoples in Aotearoa: Introduction. In fathering practices and how they influence and shape the
C. Macpherson, P. Spoonley, & M. Anae (Eds.), Tangata O Te Moana Nui: The evolving identities health and wellbeing of their children. He says New Zealand is
of Pacific peoples in Aotearoa/New Zealand (pp. 11–17). Palmerston North, New Zealand: a different society to the Pacific and therefore it is important
Dunmore. to complete more research to understand how best to support
their needs and aspiration.
Naepi, S. (2015). Navigating the currents of Kaupapa Mäori and Pan-Pacific research
methodologies in Aotearoa New Zealand. MAI Journal, 4(1), 71–84.
Smith, L. (1999). Decolonizing methodologies: Research and indigenous peoples. London,
U.K.: Zed Books. Dr Polly Atatoa-Carr
Dr Polly Atatoa Carr is a Public Health Physician within Child
Smith, D.E. (2016). Governing data and data for governance: The everyday and Youth Health at Waikato District Health Board, and
practice of Indigenous sovereignty. In T. Kukutai & J. Taylor (Eds.), Indigenous Associate Professor of Population Health at the National
data sovereignty: Toward an agenda (pp. 117–135). Canberra: Australian National Institute of Demographic and Economic Analysis (NIDEA) at
University Press, p. 132. http://pressfiles.anu.edu.au/downloads/press/n2140/pdf/ the University of Waikato.
book.pdf#page=141
Suaalii-Sauni, T., & Fulu-Aiolupotea, S. M. (2014). Decolonising Pacific research,
building Pacific research communities and developing Pacific research tools: The
case of the talanoa and the faafaletui in Samoa. Asia Pacific Viewpoint, 55(3), Dr David Schaaf‘
331–344. Dr David Schaaf is currently a Public Health Advisor with
Pacific Health Development at Counties Manukau Health DHB
Te Mana Raraunga. (n.d.). Our Charter. Retrieved November 1, 2020, from https:// and has been a member of the Healthier Lives Governance
www.temanararaunga.maori.nz/tutohinga Group since early 2017.
Thaman, K. H. (2003). Decolonizing Pacific studies: Indigenous perspectives, David has previously worked as Senior Advisor with the
knowledge, and wisdom in higher education. The Contemporary Pacific, 15(1), Ministry of Health where he helped implement Ala Mo’ui:
Pathways to Pacific Health and Wellbeing 2014-2018, the
1–17. Ministry’s strategic document for monitoring the Health
Sector’s performance on improving the health of Pacific
Tualaulelei, E., & McFall-McCaffery, J. (2019). The Pacific Research Paradigm: people in New Zealand. Other roles have included Principal
Opportunities and challenges. MAI Journal: A New Zealand Journal of Indigenous Research Analyst at the Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs and
Scholarship, 8(2), 2–17. https://doi.org/10.20507/maijournal.2019.8.2.7 senior research fellow at the School of Population Health at
the University of Auckland. His research interest has been on
chronic disease prevention.
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31PACIFIC DATA SOVEREIGNTY COMMITTEE PACIFIC DATA SOVEREIGNTY COMMITTEE
Ivan Tava Dr Sam Manuela
Director of the Whanau and Community Insights and Design, Dr Sam Manuela is a psychological researcher of both Cook
PWC New Zealand. Having leadership and team management Island and European descent. He has a lecturing position in
capabilities at a national and regional level, Ivan has the School of Psychology at The University of Auckland.
significant expertise leading, coordinating, and prioritising to
achieve goals. His qualifications, professional experience and Sam’s PhD focused on the relationship between Pacific
unique skills reflecting robust knowledge of biculturalism in ethno-cultural identity and positive wellbeing outcomes. He
Aotearoa and continuing commitment to Pasifika Education has a strong background in psychometrics and quantitative
and communities. methods, which he used to develop the Pacific Identity and
Wellbeing Scale. Sam has been heavily involved in UoA’s
His proven understanding of the political environment Tuakana programme, providing support for Māori and Pacific
and strategic implications on project and programme psychology students. He aims to continue this relationship
implementation; has enabled and established responsive within his position, in addition to developing the quantitative
work plans. Furthermore, his extensive networks and being a research skills for Pacific researchers and Pacific theoretical
well-respected member of the public sector with particularly understandings of Psychology as a discipline.
strong relationships and credibility within the Māori and
Pasifika communities throughout New Zealand has been
beneficial. Fa’amata Laumalili
Samoan born Faamata (Mata) Laumalili migrated to New
Zealand with her parents and siblings in the early 1970s. Mata
currently works for the Ministry of Business Innovation and
Employment. She is the Relationship Manager – Pacific Skills
for the Migrant Skills Retention team in the Settlement Unit,
Dr Debbie Ryan a service provided by Immigration New Zealand. Mata has
Dr Debbie Ryan is the Principal of Pacific Perspectives, a policy previously held senior policy and relationship management
and research consultancy specialising in Pacific Health. Dr roles with central and local government agencies, including
Ryan has extensive experience in the health sector as a general Auckland Council, Housing New Zealand, the Ministry of Social
practitioner, manager, senior public servant, and researcher. Development, and the Department of Labour.
She has qualifications in medicine, public management, and
Mata finds it interesting that she now works for Immigration
company direction.
New Zealand where she first had contact as a migrant. The
primary purpose of her role is to support the settlement and
retention of Pacific migrants who enter New Zealand through
the Samoan Quota Scheme and the Pacific Access Category.
The role also supports employers in key businesses that
employ Pacific migrants.
Dr Corina Grey Dr Rosalina Richards
Dr. Corina Grey is a Director of the board of directors of Vaka
Tautua. She is a public health physician and is currently the Associate Professor Richards is a member of the Va’a o Tautai -
Pacific health data and insights lead at Auckland District Centre for Pacific Health at the University of Otago and Co-
Health Board. Corina has medical and doctoral degrees from Deputy Director of the Coastal Peoples Southern Skies Centre
The University of Auckland and has worked in various roles for Research Excellence. Rose has a background in psychology
at the Ministry of Health, The University of Auckland, and and public health and she has been part of the Better Start
Counties Manukau, Waitematā and Auckland District Health National Science Challenge Big Data and Healthy Weight
Boards. teams.
Born in Samoa and raised in New Zealand since the age of 5,
Corina is passionate about Pacific health equity and improving
services and outcomes for those with disabilities and chronic
health conditions. In addition to Vaka Tautua, she also
currently sits on the board of Diabetes Foundation Aotearoa.
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33MOANA RESEARCH SECRETARIAT
PACIFIC DATA SOVEREIGNTY COMMITTEE
Dr Ofa Ketu’u Ellavia Hekau
Dr Ketu’u brings significant technical expertise in economic Ellavia is a research assistant with the Moana Research
and social statistics, and more than 20 years of experience in team. She is a graduate from the University of Otago, having
leadership positions within the Pacific region. SPC provides completed a Bachelor of Oral Health in 2018. She completed
a range of technical support to Pacific Island countries and postgraduate studies at the University of Auckland within the
territories for the sound collection and analysis of statistical Public Health sector. She is now undergoing a Bachelor of
data to inform evidence-based policy-making as a prerequisite Medicine and Surgery at the University of Otago.
for social and economic development.
Ellavia was born in New Zealand and raised in the beautiful
She has worked with SPC and Statistics New Zealand. Dr suburb of Weymouth in South Auckland. She is committed to
Ketu’u, of Tonga, has a PhD in Development Studies from making a change in her community and engaging in Pacific
Auckland University and a Master of Science in Economics health.
from the London School of Economics. Her prior experience
includes roles at the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture
Organisation, the Government of Tonga, and the World Bank.
Dr Ketu’u’s high-level skills in the production, dissemination
and use of statistics data will stand her in good stead as she
assumes the leadership of this important thematic area, Nalei Taufa
including SPC’s contribution to Phase 2 of the Ten Year Pacific
Nalei is of Tongan descent (Kolonga, Pangai Ha’apai, Tufuenga
Statistics Strategy 2011-2020.
Kolomotu’a, ‘Eua) and is a Senior Researcher for Moana
Research. Her background is in Health Science, Public Health,
Applied Theology and Psychology. Her PhD topic will focus
on Pacific communities experiences of COVID-19 (particularly
Dr ‘Ana Koloto positive cases).
Dr Koloto of Tongan descent and a Pacific Researcher and
Tongan academic who has given much of her working life to
research on issues that impacts on the lives of Pacific people.
With a long and distinguished career in New Zealand and
the Pacific region, Dr Koloto is the Director for Research and
Evaluation at Ministry of Pacific Peoples.
Jacinta Fa’alili-Fidow
Jacinta is of Samoan descent and is the Chief
Executive Officer for Moana Research. Jacinta is
a PhD candidate for the University of Auckland,
exploring resiliency among Pacific children within
the Growing Up in New Zealand Study. Jacinta’s
passion to ensure all children have optimal
opportunity to thrive in New Zealand, especially
Pacific children.
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35APPENDIX 2
At present, there is no formally agreed definition for Pacific Data Sovereignty. The term however
has been employed to describe the application of guardianship principles and practices over data,
and data processes pertaining to Pacific peoples1. More consideration is to be given to Pacific Data
Sovereignty for New Zealand and the implications for our connections to our own Pacific ethnic-
specific connections. Further, the committee alongside the secretariat, will undergo widespread and
Terms of Reference for extensive consultation whereby an integral focus will be understanding “Pacific Data Sovereignty”
through a rigorous consultation process.
PACIFIC DATA SOVEREIGNTY The Committee proposes the formation of a Pacific Data Sovereignty Secretariat that will ensure
effective coordination of the Committee, the Network, and its activities. The proposed Secretariat
NETWORK will comprise of research, data and administrative expertise, and a team consisting of a Project Lead,
Statistician, Project Administrator and Pacific Data Sovereignty Expert Advisors.
Roles and Responsibilities
Purpose of the group 1. PDSN Committee
This document sets out the terms of reference for the Pasifika Data Sovereignty Network (PDSN) a) Will consist of 12 members (including one representative from Ministry of Pacific Peoples and
and the PDSN Committee. The purpose of this group is to establish a unified voice and collective one representative from Statistics NZ)
guardianship of data and information pertaining to Pacific peoples living in New Zealand.
b) Will meet 6 times per annum, including attendance at Network Meetings
The Network is currently facilitated by Moana Research, and led by an interim Committee. At present,
there is no funding to progress many of the essential activities required for data sovereignty, thus c) A Chairperson will be appointed to lead these meetings
process of sourcing investment is a vital part of this establishment and emerging phase for the
d) Will provide expertise, knowledge, and guidance for the Network
network.
2. PDS Network
It is the responsibility of the PDSN Committee to ensure these terms of reference are shared with
members, and that those who accept membership agree to these terms a) Will meet twice per annum, to establish Charter and Guidelines for the Network
Background b) Promote opportunities to establish specific Pacific Data Sovereignty Network branches, allowing
exploration of Pacific Data Sovereignty concepts within Pacific-specific languages, cultures, and
The Pacific Data Sovereignty Network (PDSN) was established on the 29th of November 2019 contexts.
during an inaugural Seminar held in Manukau, Auckland. The purpose of the seminar was to share
and discuss perspectives and understanding of the concept of Pacific Data Sovereignty. Following 3. Proposed PDSN Secretariat (Project Lead, Statistician, Project Administrator and
discussions pertaining to the benefits and risks of data collection for Pacific peoples, a list of Pacific Data Sovereignty Expert Advisors)
recommendations were developed amongst key Pacific stakeholders: a) Coordinate the PDSN Committee Meetings
I. Establish a Pacific Data Sovereignty Network b) Establish and maintain a PDSN website
II. Organisations to signal their interest in supporting a Pacific Data Sovereignty Network c) Consult widely and draft a PDS Charter
III. Develop a Charter or a guiding document to outline an agreed definition/description of Pacific d) Organise regular meetings/seminars for the wider PDSN
Data Sovereignty and the key principles for data and information about Pacific peoples.
IV. Consider the difference between Pacific Data Sovereignty indigenous to Pacific nations and that Membership
which is related to the diaspora in New Zealand. 4. The Network is currently made up of 36 members, consisting of researchers
V. Consider the establishment of Pacific Data Sovereignty Network branches e.g. a separate Tongan and representatives from the Ministry for Pacific Peoples, Statistics New Zealand,
branch, Samoan branch, etc. to allow for exploration of Pacific Data Sovereignty concepts within Counties-Manukau Health, Auckland University of Technology, University of Waikato,
Pacific-specific languages, cultures, and contexts. University of Auckland, and Moana Research.
Following the release of the 2018 Census findings, an interim PDSN committee was established 5. The PDSN Committee will consist of 12 members (including representation from
consisting of researchers who came together to advocate for increased transparency and Pacific Ministry of Pacific Peoples and representation from Statistics NZ).
participation. The Committee also included a representative from the Ministry for Pacific Peoples 6. A two-year timeframe is recommended to fully establish the Pacific Data
and Statistics New Zealand. Following the Seminar in 2019 during which the Pacific Data Sovereignty Sovereignty Network and systems to ensure ongoing communication and
Network was officially established, it was apparent that a more formal process was necessary to dissemination of information and support, and the development of a final charter
nominate and elect representatives onto a Pacific Data Sovereignty Network Committee. and guidelines.
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