Datasphere Initiative Foundation

Address: Route de Chene 30, 1211 Geneve 6, Switzerland

Website: https://www.thedatasphere.org/

The Datasphere Initiative is a global network of stakeholders with a mission to develop agile frameworks to responsibly unlock the value of data for all.

It has been incubated by the Internet & Jurisdiction Policy Network – a multistakeholder organisation addressing the tension between the cross-border nature of the internet and national jurisdictions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqtnexKnFKIu0026list=PLa6vw8V5aV_v8kCoNqSylSRWx_yRNTe7Ju0026index=7

The Datasphere’s main objectives are the following:

  • Bring a new, holistic and positive approach to the governance of the Datasphere
  • Provide a platform to unlock the social and economic value of data access and
  • Improve coordination and accelerate the adoption of concrete proposals to overcome the current tensions and polarisation around
  • Produce evidence-based analysis on data policy
  • Catalyse human-centric technical,  policy,  and institutional innovations.

Digital activities

The Datasphere Initiative works on three programmes that promote transnational cooperation and mission-oriented partnerships: Dialogue, Intelligence, and the Lab.

Digital activities are dedicated to increasing awareness, building capacity, and identifying real-world challenges that can be addressed by data and innovative data governance frameworks.

Digital policy issues

Data governance

The Datasphere provides the fundamental perspective shift needed to govern data for the well-being of all, building innovative data governance frameworks that are inclusive, agile, and scalable.

The Intelligence Program gathers evidence on concrete challenges, identifies innovative data governance practices, and translates complex technical data issues into actionable outcomes. The main objectives of this programme are mapping the relevant actors, policy processes, innovative approaches, concepts, and trends on data governance and developing holistic analytical and measurement frameworks for the Datasphere. The Intelligence Program includes Framing the Datasphere, Datasphere Observatory, Mapping the Datasphere, Sectorial Deepdives, Datasphere Reviews, and Datasphere Toolkit(s).

The Datasphere Governance Atlas maps organisations from around the world all with a mission to address the multi-dimensional topic of data governance. The analysis identifies technical and normative approaches to data governance and puts forward insights into how the data governance environment is evolving across regions and sectors.

The Lab Program creates a collective space to showcase and experiment with innovations in governance frameworks and technical solutions advancing the vision of a Datasphere for all. Cross-border Datasphere Sandboxes, Framework Convention for the Datasphere, Protocol(s) for the Datasphere, and Datasphere Hackathons are an important segment of this programme. Moreover, it is foreseen to launch a Global Sandboxes for Data Forum in 2024 that will spur the development and implementation of innovative data governance frameworks across borders, through a multistakeholder process, to which local, regional, and global experts will be invited to contribute and learn from each other. As the first regional application of the Global Sandboxes Forum, the Datasphere Initiative has launched the Africa Forum on Sandboxes for Data.

Capacity development

The objectives of the Dialogue Program are to inform (increase awareness of data opportunities and challenges across regions), advise (develop capacity-building programmes with a regional partner), and innovate (identify real-world challenges that can be addressed by data and innovative data governance frameworks). The Datasphere Dialogues seek to engage systematically with stakeholders in Europe and North America but will count with a special focus on the Global South and sustainability challenges, supporting local and regional empowerment and leadership on Data Governance. In addition to global dialogues, it consists of structured regional efforts in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Asia. The Dialogue Program includes Datasphere Dialogues, Datasphere Academy, Datasphere Challenges, and the Datasphere Summit.

Digital tools

Mapping the Datasphere seeks to investigate paths to enable the visualisation of the Datasphere as a whole and its different dimensions, building on datasets of personal and/or non-personal data in collaboration with data engineers and policy practitioners. The ultimate objective is to develop an interactive Datasphere Observatory platform where the Datasphere and the repository of collected information can be visualised in its different layers and segments of different dataspheres tangible for users and decision-makers.

Future of meetings

More information is available on the event page.

Social media channels

Instagram @youth4data

LinkedIn @datasphere-initiative

Medium @thedatasphere

TikTok @youth4data

X @thedatasphere

YouTube @The Datasphere

HealthAI: The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health

Acronym: HealthAI

Established: 2023

Address: Chemin Eugène-Rigot 2A, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland

Website: https://www.healthai.agency

HealthAI – The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health – is a Geneva-based non-profit organisation with the mission of advancing the development and adoption of Responsible AI solutions in health through the collaborative implementation of regulatory mechanisms and global standards.

HealthAI envisions a world where artificial intelligence (AI) produces equitable and inclusive improvements in health and well-being for all individuals and communities.

As the premier implementing partner to ensure global standards for Responsible AI in health are actively applied, HealthAI works with countries, normative agencies, the private sector, and other stakeholders to build national and regional regulatory capacity so that countries can actively validate AI technologies, reducing both risks and long-term costs of AI-enabled health.

With a network of over 45 partners, HealthAI’s work is rooted in three core principles, namely cultivating trust, catalysing innovation, and centring equity.

 Logo, Text

An Organisational Refresh:

Following four years of operation under The International Digital Health and AI Research Collaborative (I-DAIR), we have transformed into HealthAI: The Global Agency for Responsible AI in Health.

Digital policy issues

HealthAI new strategy

AI and other emerging technologies have immense potential to improve health and well-being but they also bring a unique set of risks and challenges that must be addressed to safeguard individuals and communities from potential harms. Globally, a lack of effective governance is increasing the risk and hindering the adoption of Responsible AI solutions towards better health outcomes. Strong, responsive regulatory mechanisms are required to establish AI systems’ safety and effectiveness and build trust for the long-term acceptability and success of AI-enabled progress in the health sector.

Some countries, mainly those with the highest gross domestic product (GDP) and the most advanced technology sectors, have begun integrating AI regulation into governance structures and national regulations. Most countries have only just begun considering the regulation of AI in general terms and even less so within the context of health. This risks deepening inequity in both access and outcome between early adopter countries and countries that do not have the resources or flexibility to match the pace of technological innovation.                    

Global efforts addressing the need for AI regulation through the harmonisation of existing standards are critical, but require collaborative partners who can support the implementation of the resulting standards and recommendations at a local level. With the new strategy for 2024-2026, HealthAI positions itself as a premier implementing partner for countries, normative agencies, the private sector, and other stakeholders to ensure global standards of Responsible AI in health are actively applied in the push towards improved health and well-being outcomes for all in alignment with the SDGs.

HealthAI’s Core Outputs

To achieve our mission, HealthAI’s work spans four key areas (Figure 1): 

i) Building and certifying national and regional validation mechanisms on Responsible AI in health:

  • Establish in-country, government-led regulatory mechanisms by implementing global standards and guidance set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and others at the country level.
  • Support the implementation of existing auditing tools, and provide guidance on the use of data for AI solutions validation.

ii) Establishing a global regulatory network for knowledge sharing and early warning of adverse events:

  • Facilitate knowledge sharing so as to streamline the certification of the same technology and to identify AI solutions that require refinement or re-evaluation.
  • Rapid notification of adverse events arising from an AI-driven health solution.

iii) Creating a global public repository of validated AI solutions for health:

  • Allow countries to evaluate solution options against local health needs.
  • Surface unmet health needs as insights and inspiration for technology developers.

iv) Delivering advisory support on policies and regulations:

  • Provide technical guidance and insights into global trends and best practices so as to assist public and private stakeholders in developing effective and contextually relevant strategies, policies, and regulations.
  • Democratise AI for health policy-making through diverse stakeholder and citizen engagement to cultivate trust and improve inclusiveness.
 Text, QR Code, Symbol

Figure 1 – Responsible AI Solution for Health

The outputs will lead to the following outcomes. Stronger policies, regulations, and institutions will enable the effective governance and validation of AI and other emerging technologies, reducing both the risks and long-term costs of AI-enabled health. In the long term, countries will be able to identify validated AI solutions with greater certainty in their efficacy to meet local health needs, while private sector partners will have clarity about regulatory requirements and a better understanding of AI use in health systems and services. 

HealthAI’s Impact

HealthAI is dedicated to contributing to enhanced health and well-being outcomes for all in alignment with the SDGs. HealthAI aims to achieve this by facilitating increased access to safe, high-quality, effective, and equitable AI solutions. This involves ensuring that AI solutions are not only safe for use but also comply with rigorous quality standards, delivering the intended health outcomes or system improvements.

HealthAI commits to providing information on market access authorisation, and reimbursement processes while supporting an early-warning mechanism to alert countries of adverse events. Through streamlined information sharing between countries and the establishment of a global repository of validated AI solutions, the organisation seeks to propagate the availability of proven Responsible AI solutions. Furthermore, HealthAI envisions a positive impact on government revenue from regulatory activities, generating new sources of income for regulatory agencies and government budgets. This financial support is crucial for the sustained funding of regulatory mechanisms and additional investment capacity, ultimately accelerating approval processes across countries and leading to cost savings and bureaucratic streamlining. 

Finally, by fostering an ecosystem that ensures compliance with internationally defined Responsible AI standards, protects national data sovereignty, and supports local validation processes that enable feedback from civil society, HealthAI’s work will increase trust, investment, and innovation in Responsible AI solutions for health.

Definition of Responsible AI

Responsible AI is characterised by AI technologies that align with established standards and ethical principles, prioritising human-centric attributes. In the context of HealthAI, Responsible AI is defined as AI solutions that exhibit ethical, inclusive, rights-respecting, and sustainable qualities. These attributes encompass a commitment to protecting and respecting human autonomy, promoting well-being and safety, ensuring technical robustness, safeguarding privacy and data, adhering to laws and ethics, prioritising transparency and explainability, maintaining responsibility and accountability, fostering inclusivity and equity, upholding diversity and non-discrimination, and considering societal and environmental well-being. HealthAI applies these principles across all facets of AI technologies, from technical development and data use to technology implementation and its ultimate impact. This comprehensive definition is drawn from reputable sources, including WHO, the International Development Research Center’s AI for Global Health Initiative, the European Commission’s High-Level Expert Group on AI, and pertinent journal publications on the ethics and governance of artificial intelligence in health.

Social media channels

LinkedIn @healthaiagency

X @thehealthai

YouTube @I-DAIR

DCAF – Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance

Acronym: DCAF

Established: 2000

Address: Maison de la Paix, Chemin Eugène-Rigot 2D, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland

Website: https://www.dcaf.ch/

DCAF is dedicated to improving the security of states and their people within a framework of democratic governance, the rule of law, respect for human rights, and gender equality. Since its founding in 2000, DCAF has contributed to making peace and development more sustainable by assisting partner states, and international actors supporting these states, to improve the governance of their security sector through inclusive and participatory reforms. It creates innovative knowledge products, promotes norms and good practices, provides legal and policy advice and supports capacity‐building of both state and non‐state security sector stakeholders.

Digital activities

Cyberspace and cybersecurity have numerous implications for security provision, management, and oversight, which is why DCAF is engaged in these topics within its work. DCAF has implemented a cycle of policy projects to develop new norms and good practices in cyberspace. At the operational level, cybersecurity governance has become a prominent part of SSR programming.

Digital policy issues

Cybersecurity

Digitalisation and cybersecurity are the challenges of today and tomorrow. They have an overarching impact on the security sector and the role of the security sector and governance reform (SSG/R) in the digital space. In our recent study SSG/R in the digital space: projections into the future policy, we shed light on the complex intersection of digitalisation and security sector governance. It examines how security sector actors have adapted to the digital transition and the emergence of new actors within the security ecosystem. It also provides concrete recommendations on how to navigate the complexities of digital technologies and shape ethical technology use and robust digital governance frameworks.

Capacity development

For newcomers to the field, DCAF offers the introductory series SSR Backgrounders, with a special issue on the impact of digitalisation on good governance in the security sector. It is a first-stop resource to understand the challenges and considerations for best policy and practice. 

DCAF implements projects that focus on improving cybersecurity laws and policies, increasing the capacity of cybersecurity actors, and strengthening accountability in cybersecurity. One of our priorities is to strengthen the individual and institutional capacities of national Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs). These teams are responsible for effectively and efficiently preventing and responding to attacks on national systems.

We also run the annual Young Faces research and mentoring programme, which helps to develop the next generation of cybersecurity experts in the Western Balkans. Each year, we select around 30 dynamic, forward-thinking young professionals to join the programme that enhances their knowledge of emerging trends in cybersecurity governance.

Research shows that women, girls, and LGBTQ+ people are the most affected by cybersecurity risks. Our publication and podcast series analyses how they have been pushed out of cyberspaces by abuse and discrimination, and what solutions exist to take a human-centred approach that considers everyone’s needs in cybersecurity.

In our Donors’ Talk podcast series, we spoke with DCAF’s Justice Advisor to draw on her 15 years of experience in justice sector reform to look at success stories, challenges, and what needs to be considered when supporting digitalisation projects related to justice reform. In Morocco, DCAF supported the National AntiCorruption Commission with training on the prevention and investigation of cyber-corruption and financial cybercrimes. The government commission digitalised its internal processes, resulting in more effective tracking and response to citizens’ data protection requests

Digital tools

Legislation databases 

DCAF’s three legal databases gather policies, laws, and decrees governing the security sectors in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Libya, and Tunisia. Each database covers the main providers of security and justice, the formal supervision and management institutions, and the legislative and regulatory texts covering and authorising the work of informal control actors (political parties, media, NGOs, etc.). 

A resource for legislators, the justice system, academia, and civil society, the databases offer both a current resource and a historical perspective on the evolution of security sector legislation in the respective countries.

Handbook on effective use of social media in cybersecurity awareness-raising campaigns

This handbook provides condensed and easy-to-follow guidance and examples for designing content strategies and the efficient use of social media towards effective public awareness raising on cybersecurity. It shares the do’s and don’ts of social media, and how to have a strategic social media presence to support better cybersecurity.

For more tools and resources on cybersecurity governance and the security sector, visit our website

Social media channels

Facebook @DCAFgeneva

LinkedIn @DCAF

Spotify @dcaf

X @DCAF_Geneva

YouTube @DCAF Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance

Group on Earth Observations

Acronym: GEO

Address: 7 bis, Av. de la Paix, Case postale 2300, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland

Website: https://earthobservations.org/index.php

About GEO

The Group on Earth Observations (GEO) is a global collaboration dedicated to understanding our Earth in all its complexity. As a collaborative intergovernmental body, GEO is dedicated to co-producing user-driven Earth Intelligence solutions. By collecting and sharing vital information, ranging from satellite images of forests to oceanic temperature readings and beyond, GEO provides a comprehensive view of our planet’s well-being, allowing us to monitor and safeguard its health. These are not just datasets; they’re the tools that inform decisions, shaping policies and initiatives worldwide that guide society towards a sustainable future.

Why GEO?

Our planet faces challenges that don’t stop at borders. From the pressing issues of climate change, and the alarming loss of biodiversity, to the widespread pollution affecting our lands, skies, and seas, there’s much at stake. While the challenges are integrated, the global response often remains fragmented. Among the ever-growing flood of information and data sources, there’s a noticeable gap in cohesive global partnerships. This is where GEO steps in, striving to unify these fragmented efforts and championing inclusivity in seeking holistic solutions for global challenges.

Digital activities

At GEO, we serve as a collaborative platform where science, policy, and community interests unite for the greater good.

Enhanced coordination: Building on our unique role to lead the development of integrated Earth Observation (EO) solutions, we focus on coordination from global to local levels, sharing beneficial practices and building capacity.

Broad engagement: We actively engage with youth, indigenous communities, women, and other groups to amplify voices whose potential to contribute to EO solutions has not yet been fully realised.

Transformative programmes: Our strategic work programme activities generate high-added value towards policy goals, support sustained services for decision-making, build capacity, and advance equity.

Inclusivity: We are committed to increasing engagement and building capacity, especially in the global south. There is a call to fully address and embed equality, diversity, and inclusivity (EDI) principles in all GEO undertakings.

Digital policy issues

Data governance

GEO recognises that the societal benefits arising from EOs can only be fully achieved through the sharing of data, information, knowledge, products, and services. Ever since its inception, GEO has been a strong advocate for broad and open data-sharing policies and practices (Open Earth Observation Data). The Data Sharing Principles (2005-2015) inspired a few members and participating organisations to evolve from restricted data policies to Open Data approaches. Data sharing was also recognised as one of the greatest successes of the first GEO decade. Embracing the international trend of Open Data, GEO principals endorsed a new set of Data Management Principles. These principles promote ‘Open Data by Default’ and address the need for discovery, accessibility, usability, preservation, and curation of data.

To enable Indigenous peoples to equitably participate in and benefit from data creation, application, and stewardship within contemporary data environments, the GEO Indigenous Alliance advocates for the implementation of CARE (collective benefit, authority to control, responsibility, ethics) with FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable, reusable) principles. The CARE Principles for Indigenous Data Governance are people- and purpose-oriented, reflecting the crucial role of data in advancing Indigenous innovation, and self-determination. These principles complement the existing FAIR principles encouraging open and other data movements to consider both people and purpose in their advocacy and pursuits.

Sustainable development

GEO leads global initiatives that explore our planet’s ecological health, climate challenges, disaster readiness, resource optimisation, urban sustainability, and public health priorities. By integrating EOs with global frameworks like the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Paris Agreement, and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, GEO demonstrates our commitment to fostering a healthy, sustainable, and resilient world.

Driven by the post-2025 strategy, Earth Intelligence for All, GEO is committed to co-producing actionable insights with and for our diverse user base.

The GEO Work Programme is the primary instrument to encourage collaboration among our members, participating organisations, associates, and other partners. It aims to fulfil GEO’s mission and vision by addressing information needs in various fields where EOs play a crucial role.

Digital tools and initiatives

The current flagship programmes in the GEO work programme are 
GEO Land Degradation Neutrality, GEO Biodiversity Observation Network, GEO Global Agricultural Monitoring, the Global Forest Observation Initiative, and the Global Observation System for Mercury. To facilitate access to EO applications, we are developing the GEO Knowledge Hub, a digital library. Ministers and ministerial representatives adopted the Group on Earth Observations 2023 Cape Town Ministerial Declaration on 10 November 2023. The Declaration endorses the GEO post-2025 strategy Earth Intelligence for All, charges GEO with developing an implementation plan to guide the execution of the strategy, and reaffirms the integral role of young people as catalysts for sustainable development, among other statements.

GEO assists countries in its region in addressing sustainable development challenges. The vision of the  GEO Indigenous Alliance is to protect and conserve indigenous cultural heritage by using EOs science,  data and technology to create a knowledge base that sustains the Earth we live on. 

GEO has developed a series of tools and initiatives to promote the use of EOs as evidence for decision-making.

An important convention (not necessarily covering digital issues directly, but relevant)

Social media channels

Facebook @Group On Earth Observations

Flickr @grouponearthobservations

Instagram @grouponearthobservations

LinkedIn @group-on-earth-observations

X @GEOSEC2025

YouTube @Group on Earth Observations

Geneva Foundation for Technology Innovation

Acronym: FONGIT

Established: 1991

Created in 1991, Fongit serves as an innovation hub dedicated to supporting innovative tech ventures in the Geneva region. The Foundation empowers innovative companies to successfully transform technology through innovation into a growing sustainable business, delivering economic and social value. Fongit is supported by the State of Geneva.

Digital activities

Fongit’s mission is to transform technological innovation into social and economic value. In doing so, the Foundation assists innovative companies in the digital economy, by providing them with access to offices and labs; administrative, governance, and legal support; and access to financing.

Digital policy issues

Digital economy

Through its activities dedicated to supporting innovative tech start-ups, Fongit contributes to the growth of the digital economy. Over the years, entrepreneurs supported by the Foundation have developed companies in areas such as information and communications technology (ICT), engineering, and life sciences.

Fongit’s Incubator Program assists start-ups in transforming ideas and technologies into viable products, by helping them prepare to fundraise and facilitating connections with angel investors, institutional funds, and corporate venture capitalists. After the three-year incubation period, start-ups tend to remain engaged with the ecosystem, sharing their experiences, insights, and best practices. The programme accepts applications from all over the globe.

The Foundation also offers financing tools – through the Fongit Innovation Fund (FIF)– to support innovation processes within Geneva-based universities, research institutes, and technology companies. The Fund is supported by the Republic and Canton of Geneva, the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services of Geneva, the International Trade Centre (ITC), and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

Sustainable development

All Fongit-supported startups are required to ensure that they directly or indirectly contribute to the achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) through their work. Fongit works closely with UNEP and ITC to identify the contribution by its startups towards the SDGs.

Interdisciplinary approaches

Fongit, as an innovation leader, recognised the increasing integration of seemingly unrelated technologies, prompting a move towards tech convergence. This trend is notably advanced in the life sciences domain, where addressing medical challenges involves multidisciplinary interactions across technologies like ICT, hardware, physics, and medical expertise. The acceleration in Geneva’s innovation landscape occurred when life sciences projects from the Eclosion Foundation were integrated into Fongit. The positive outcomes include enhanced collaboration among entrepreneurs, facilitated by communal spaces, leading to the exchange of ideas benefitting various sectors. This tech convergence has driven further innovation at Fongit’s headquarters, with anticipation of future developments in their startup ecosystem.

Social media networks

Facebook @fongit.ch

Instagram @fongit.ch

LinkedIn @fongit

X @Fongit1

YouTube @Fongit

CUTS International

International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent

ICT 4 Peace Foundation

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