ABSTRACT
Humanitarian organisations face increased incentives to collect and share disaggregated data about their operations, including the personal data of the people they serve. At the same time, they must ensure this data is used for humanitarian purposes only and does not cause harm to affected populations. Despite recent progress with sector-wide commitments and frameworks for data protection, there is an area in need of more specific guidance: data sharing between humanitarian organisations and the donors who fund their work.
In this chapter, the authors consider developments in institutional and sector-wide policies, guidance, and practice in recent years, examine the complex dynamics of the data sharing relationship between humanitarian organisations and donors, and examine the prospects and pitfalls of a common framework to support improved data protection in the practice of data sharing. The chapter draws on the extant literature, primary research, and diverse perspectives from humanitarian operational and policy-making experience.
