Main governance approaches to the data-driven Digital Economy worldwide: risk of fragmentation in the digital space?

Abstract

The particular nature of data, and existing global imbalances in the way in which cross-border data flows can be harnessed for various development objectives, imply a key role for policies to achieve those objectives. However, as shown in this chapter and in chapter V, the approaches taken to govern data and data flows across borders vary considerably among countries. This chapter focuses on the major policy approaches towards the digital economy and data governance in some major economies, which may have a global influence on the digital economy, including on regulations of cross-border data flows. Diverging approaches in this context are reflected in tensions in the global economy – especially between the United States and China – and risk fragmentation of the digital space and the Internet, with potential significant implications for developing countries.