Paving the way forward for data governance: A story of checks and balances

Data governance is a phenomenon that brings many interests and considerations
together. This editorial argues that active involvement of various stakeholders is
vital to advance discussions about how to create value from data as a means to
stimulate societal progress. Without adequate checks and balances, each stakeholder group on its own will not have sufficient incentives to do its utmost to
achieve this common goal. Policymakers and regulators need to be stimulated to
look beyond short-term results to ensure that the design of their initiatives is fit for
purpose. Industry players have to be transparent about their practices to prevent
strategic behaviour that may harm society. And researchers must inform their
findings with real-world evidence and proper terminology.