Ethics, transparency, and trust-building are essential elements of the rapidly evolving data-driven technologies landscape. To address these issues, the Ethical Data Initiative (EDI) and TUM Think Tank organized a workshop titled “New Directions for Global Activities in Data Ethics” in Munich, from 8-10 April. The workshop brought together experts in data and research governance to discuss the fundamental challenges posed by our increasingly digitised society, and chart a course for the EDI’s future endeavours. During the event, participants highlighted the critical need for a robust ethical framework in the data-driven technologies landscape.

The EDI aims to create a neutral platform via a network of global hubs where discussions related to ethical data practices can take place and be advanced. Through these discussions, the EDI aims to promote ethical and responsible data practices on a local, national, and international scale across the globe. During the workshop, the EDI identified three key pillars to focus its work around:

1. International data ethics education

2. Policy and networks

3. Stakeholder and community engagement

The EDI aims to build data confidence and responsible data use across civil society, industry, and government through these three pillars, increasing equality, inclusivity and trust in the data space through research and an evidence-based approach.

One of the highlights of the workshop was the keynote speech delivered by Sabina Leonelli on “Why Ethical Data in the age of XAI?” The speech was enlightening and raised critical questions on the need for ethical data practices in the evolving landscape of data-driven technologies.

The EDI is an innovative, collaborative project that focuses on promoting ethical and responsible data practices globally. The Technical University of Munich (TUM) and the University of Exeter jointly host the EDI. These universities have a proven track record in research on data ethics and governance, extensive teaching programs, and well-developed doctoral training programs. As global hosts for the EDI, the universities will play a crucial role in developing training and policy frameworks, turning knowledge into evidence-driven policy.

The Workshop on “New Directions for Global Activities in Data Ethics” was a platform for thought-provoking discussions on the need for a robust ethical framework in the data-driven technologies landscape. The EDI aims to promote ethical and responsible data practices globally through research and an evidence-based approach. Through its network of stakeholders, the EDI aims to create a neutral platform for discussions related to ethical data practices, increasing equality and inclusivity in the data space, and empowering the digital citizens of tomorrow.