Fortunately, all around the globe, governments, multilateral organizations, academic institutes, companies, civil society groups, and advocates across all sectors remain committed to improving the state of the world. Within this constellation of actors, the Data Revolution for Sustainable Development community has emerged and evolved into a global, diverse, and dynamic ecosystem focused on leveraging the transformative potential of data as an enabler of sustainable development – for both
people and planet. PARIS21, together with partners Open Data Watch, CEPEI, the Thematic Research Network on Data and Statistics (TRENDS) and the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data have come together and have prepared this statement to articulate our vision of where targeted action can maximise the value of data as a catalyst and enabler of sustainable development to 2030 and beyond.
Our vision is simple: we need to meet the moment by accelerating and scaling-up proven approaches to data systems building and their responsible use. Leveraging data’s transformative potential at a global scale will require targeting resources and interventions efficiently at local levels to maximise impact. It will require investment in statistical modernization initiatives, and the scaling-up of responsible and effective multistakeholder data partnerships for people and planet. Digital and automated technologies will help us to meet the moment, but it is their lifeblood –data– that ultimately drives the decisions we take as human beings, and it is data that holds the key to true transformative potential.
“Data – when used responsibly – is the bedrock of a sustainable future. Let’s find new ways to harness and apply this vital resource and shape a better tomorrow for all people.”
– UN Secretary-General, July 2023
