Digital Democracy and Data Governance

The projects ongoing under this theme are:

1. Data Regulations in the European Union: Research on data governance and regulations in the European Union examines the legal and policy frameworks that regulate the collection, processing, and storage of data within the EU, as well as their extra-territorial impact. Key areas of focus include cross-border data flows, ethical considerations in data use, and compliance challenges. Additionally, this research explores the geopolitical dynamics of major global actors in the data economy and the implications of these developments on the Global South, highlighting the complexities of data governance in an interconnected world.
2. India's Data Diplomacy: This research theme focuses on the country's foreign policy and strategic negotiations surrounding data storage and transfer. It aims to understand the global and geopolitical implications of India's stance on data governance, as well as the key factors influencing its negotiations with other global actors. This research delves into how India balances its national interests, security concerns, and economic objectives within the broader context of international data flows, while considering its role in shaping global data governance frameworks. The study also examines the challenges India faces in navigating these complex diplomatic and regulatory landscapes.
3. Data Centres and the Public Good: This theme focuses on examining the role of data infrastructure in India, particularly in relation to the public good. It aims to identify critical policy gaps and their implications for democracy and citizens' rights, especially in the context of data privacy and access. This research also explores the political economy of data centres, considering the economic and social costs and benefits, particularly for marginalised sections of society. By analysing the intersection of data infrastructure, policy, and social equity, the theme seeks to understand how the expansion of data centres can both empower and potentially exclude vulnerable populations.
4. Digital Public Infrastructure in India: This theme focuses on assessing design thinking in the development of digital public infrastructure, to identify key knowledge gaps, infrastructure limitations, and confidence deficits within existing systems. The research explores how these barriers affect the equitable access and use of digital services, especially for vulnerable groups. It also provides policy recommendations aimed at addressing these challenges, ensuring that digital infrastructure is inclusive, accessible, and capable of empowering marginalised communities while fostering broader societal participation in the digital economy.

Faculty involved: Aakansha Natani

Students involved: Siddhi Wadekar, Chandan Kushwaha, Nanda Rajiv, Sujal Deodia