Mind the Gap: Global Data Sharing

In an increasingly globalised world, the importance of collaborative research into international issues, such as climate change, economic crises, migration and health cannot be underestimated. This type of research requires data sharing at a cross-national level. In this paper we discuss the barriers which prevent data sharing on a global scale and the need to address the lack of data awareness. We will explain the licensing issues which restrict the use of data in the ESDS International portfolio by the UK academic community but will also highlight ways in which the ESDS International service helps the non-UK international data research community by identifying free data sources and producing freely available supporting documentation and other materials. The paper will highlight the development of e-learning materials based upon a key socio-economic theme: ‘the UN’s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)’. As the current international development planning framework, the eight MDGs are time-bound and quantifiable targets for reducing poverty, improving health and protecting the environment. Intended to raise awareness of the potential use of quantitative international data in research and teaching, additionally, these open access e-learning materials have been developed as an interactive online set of materials to be used as a self-teaching resource.