IHF Local Bereavement Development Grants in Ireland – fundsforNGOs

Report on Digital Technology’s Role in Advancing Sustainable Development Goals

Strategic Application of Data for Global Goals

The strategic deployment of digital technologies and the processing of data are pivotal in accelerating progress towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The ethical management of information, grounded in user consent, serves as a foundational element for building trust and ensuring that technological advancements contribute positively to global objectives. This approach directly supports the principles of accountability and transparency central to SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

Categorization of Data Utilization in Support of Specific SDGs

The technical storage and access of information can be categorized based on its purpose, with each category directly contributing to specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

1. Functional Data Processing for Essential Services

   Technical storage or access that is strictly necessary for the delivery of a specific digital service is fundamental to building resilient infrastructure. This ensures equitable access to information and communications technology, a key target of SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). Furthermore, it enables access to online educational platforms, contributing to SDG 4 (Quality Education).

2. Preference-Based Data Storage for Inclusive Access

   The storage of user preferences enhances the accessibility and usability of digital services. By tailoring experiences, this function helps create more inclusive digital environments, thereby supporting the objective of SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by ensuring that digital platforms are accessible to all, including persons with disabilities.

3. Statistical Analysis for Informed Decision-Making

   Data utilized exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes is a critical tool for monitoring progress on the SDGs. Without identifying individuals, this information provides valuable insights for policymakers.

   • Aggregated data can track public health trends, supporting SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).
   • Analysis of economic patterns contributes to strategies for SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
   • Understanding usage patterns helps in planning for SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

4. Profile-Driven Communications for Partnership and Growth

   The creation of user profiles to deliver targeted information can be leveraged to mobilize action and foster economic development. This capability is instrumental in promoting sustainable consumption patterns and supporting green enterprises, directly contributing to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). It also serves as a mechanism for engaging stakeholders and building multi-stakeholder collaborations, which is the core mission of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Analysis of the Article in Relation to Sustainable Development Goals

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

   • The article is fundamentally about the operational aspects of modern digital infrastructure. It discusses “technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information” and the “transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network,” which are core components of the information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure that SDG 9 aims to develop.

2. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

   • The article’s focus on user consent (“Consenting to these technologies,” “Not consenting or withdrawing consent”) directly relates to the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms in the digital age. This aligns with the goal of building effective and accountable institutions that protect these freedoms, particularly the right to privacy concerning personal data like “browsing behavior or unique IDs.”

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. Target 9.c: Significantly increase access to information and communications technology and strive to provide universal and affordable access to the Internet.

   • While the article does not discuss increasing access, it deals with the direct consequences and mechanisms of widespread ICT use. The need for technologies like cookies for “statistical purposes,” “storing preferences,” and “marketing” only arises in an environment where access to this technology is already prevalent. The entire premise of the article is based on the existence and use of the infrastructure promoted by this target.

2. Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements.

   • The cookie consent notice described in the article is a direct implementation of legislation (like GDPR) designed to protect the fundamental freedom of privacy. The process of asking for consent to “process data” and create “user profiles” is a mechanism to uphold laws that give individuals control over their personal information, thereby protecting their fundamental rights online.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

1. Implied Indicator for Target 9.c

   • The article implies an indicator related to the sophistication and ubiquity of ICT services. The very existence of a detailed consent mechanism for managing “browsing behavior” and “unique IDs” for purposes ranging from functional to marketing suggests a high level of digital infrastructure maturity and user engagement, which are outcomes of increased access to ICT.

2. Implied Indicator for Target 16.10

   • An implied indicator is the implementation and enforcement of data protection and privacy regulations. The article’s detailed breakdown of consent for “functional,” “preferences,” “statistics,” and “marketing” purposes is a practical manifestation of a legal framework that guarantees the protection of personal data. The presence of such a consent tool on a website serves as tangible evidence that policies protecting fundamental freedoms are being actively implemented.

Summary of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: www2.fundsforngos.org