Expert: How World Data Organization could reshape data governance

The World Data Organization (WDO) was officially launched in Beijing on Monday as the first professional international organization dedicated to advancing data development and governance practices. Positioned as a non-governmental and non-profit platform, it aims to facilitate dialogue, rule-making and international cooperation in the data domain.

Experts said the timing of the organization reflects a broader shift in the global digital landscape. Zhang Monan, deputy director of the Department of American and European Studies at the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, noted that the global digital economy is expanding rapidly, while governance frameworks remain fragmented and competition in the digital space is intensifying.

In a written interview with CGTN, Zhang said that the WDO could serve as a platform to build consensus on technical standards and best practices by bringing together enterprises, universities, think tanks and research institutions worldwide.

"This would help reduce barriers in areas such as big data and artificial intelligence, while enabling cross-border integration of innovation resources," Zhang said.

Zhang highlighted that one of the most pressing challenges lies in the lack of coordination in cross-border data governance. "Differences in national regulations, review mechanisms and compliance requirements have led to high costs and limited data flows for global businesses," she said. "The WDO, as a neutral and professional platform, could promote policy alignment and mutual recognition, helping to reduce institutional barriers to data circulation."

Beyond governance, the organization is also expected to play a role in narrowing the global data divide. Zhang noted that through capacity-building and industrial cooperation, the WDO could help developing countries enhance their data governance and application capabilities, enabling broader participation in the digital economy and ultimately unlocking the value of data while supporting the growth of the digital economy.

China has positioned the WDO within a broader vision of global cooperation. Officials have emphasized promoting secure and orderly cross-border data flows, supporting developing countries – particularly those in the Global South – and building an open, fair and inclusive global data governance system.

Read more: World Data Organization launches in Beijing to boost data governance