Guidelines to ensure Māori Data Sovereignty in the ICT sector of Aotearoa New Zealand
Author: Marlou Queniahan
Supervisors: Farhad Mehdipour
2 December 2024
Queniahan, M. (2024). Guidelines to ensure Māori Data Sovereignty in the ICT sector of Aotearoa New Zealand [Master's thesis, Auckland International Campus, Otago Polytechnic]. Research Bank. https://doi.org/10.34074/thes.6759
Abstract
This research examined Māori Data Sovereignty within Aotearoa New Zealand’s Information and Communication Technology sector, specifically investigating its perception, implementation challenges, and existing gaps. Māori Data Sovereignty is rooted in Māori self-determination and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, advocating for Māori control over data related to their identity, culture, and intellectual property rights. The findings indicate that while awareness of Māori Data Sovereignty is increasing, its practical application remains inadequate. Current data governance models often fail to incorporate Māori values, resulting in insufficient Māori control, data misrepresentation, continued systemic inequities, and the potential misuse of culturally significant data. Key barriers identified include a lack of Māori involvement in decision-making processes and limited representation in leadership positions within the Information and Communication Technology sector, further marginalising Māori voices in critical discussions. To address identified challenges, such as insufficient Māori control, data misrepresentation, and systemic inequities, the research recommends practical guidelines to integrate Māori cultural values into data governance, ensuring alignment with Māori Data Sovereignty principles. Recommendations include enhancing consultation with Māori communities to centre their perspectives in decision-making, increasing Māori representation in Information and Communication Technology leadership roles, establishing formal structures for Māori oversight, and providing targeted education for Information and Communication Technology professionals on Māori Data Sovereignty principles. Together, these actions are essential for creating an equitable and culturally respectful digital environment, ensuring Māori communities gain greater control and sovereignty over their data in the future.
Keywords
Māori Data Sovereignty, ICT sector, identity, intellectual property rights
Licence
A copy of the thesis is publicly available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial No Derivatives licence CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International
This licence applies except where otherwise indicated, especially for images.
