Building data systems for all: Facilitating intersectional data collection, analysis, and use to leave no one behind

As we approach the 2030 deadline for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is imperative to ensure that data systems serve the needs of all communities. At this pivotal moment in the pursuit of sustainable development, we can only address the complex barriers that hinder progress through the collection and analysis of intersectional data. People are not monoliths and their identities impact how they experience the world. Without data that captures the nuances of our individual experiences, policy makers will be hamstrung in their efforts to facilitate inclusive and sustainable development.

However, current data systems are not equipped to collect and analyze these data. Countries do not collect and publish enough disaggregated data; they do not have the necessary data governance, security, and privacy frameworks; and they contend with technical, financial, cultural, and legal barriers to collecting, analyzing, and using intersectional data. To address these issues, the development data community must come together to conduct research to understand these constraints, identify good practices, bridge divides between different data communities by fostering partnerships, and further advocate for more and better intersectional data.

Open Data Watch – Data2X lead this work across three interconnected areas: research, partnerships, and advocacy, with guidance from a Steering Committee (SC). The SC includes representatives from ODW-Data2X, Koppa Lab, and the Center for Global Development.

Phase 1: Completed (2024-2025) - Establishing the foundation for the IDD work 

The first phase focused on establishing the foundations for this work, including setting up a Steering Committee to guide the work agenda, conducting initial research on country examples and best practices, and publishing knowledge products. The work also focused on building awareness and connections across the development data community through participation in relevant events, such as the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) and webinars, and other opportunities to share emerging findings and perspectives to get feedback, promote and advocate for this work, and share the insights collected. 

Phase 2: In progress (2026-2027) – Deepening the evidence base, strengthening partnerships, and advocating for IDD 

The second phase will build on the foundation established in Phase 1, with guidance from the Steering Committee, to deepen research on IDD, including areas such as older persons, migration, and much more; develop a website (knowledge hub) to compile relevant resources and insights; strengthen partnerships with collaboratives such as the Collaborative on Citizen Data and coalitions such as iCount; and convene events, roundtables, and discussions to exchange knowledge. The work will also advance advocacy efforts, using evidence and research to promote greater recognition and integration of intersectionality in data systems, while seeking to expand and diversify the Steering Committee.

Progress will be monitored through Steering Committee meetings, tracking of research and knowledge products, events, advocacy activities, and partnerships, as well as feedback from Steering Committee members and other stakeholders. Progress will be assessed based on the delivery and uptake of planned activities and outputs, engagement across relevant data communities, and the development of new partnerships and opportunities to advance the work.

For existing knowledge materials part of this work:

• Harnessing the Power of Intersectionality Data for Better Development Policies and Impact 
• Integrating Intersectionality in Data Systems: A Practical Guide Across the Data Value Chain 
• Counting Everyone: An Intersectional Lens to Data in Colombia 
• From Disaggregation to Intersectionality: Canada’s Experience Advancing Inclusive Data 
• Intersectional Data and Persons with Disabilities