Lizhi Liu, an Assistant Professor at Georgetown specializing in data politics and China’s digital economy, discusses the emergence of data politics as a strategic asset among states and companies. She explains how data differs from traditional resources, emphasizing issues of data ownership and security. The conversation touches on China's national data strategy, contrasting it with global approaches, and examines the implications for international tech firms navigating complex regulations amid geopolitical tensions. Liu also explores how technology influences governance in China and globalization.
Data politics is increasingly significant as states navigate the complexities of data collection and sovereignty amid global tensions.
China's proactive data governance model sets a precedent for other nations, influencing international relations and digital trade dynamics.
Deep dives
The Emergence of Data Politics
Data politics refers to the strategic interactions among states and non-state actors regarding the collection, processing, and use of data. This concept is gaining significance as data becomes a critical asset for both governments and tech companies. The growing political discourse surrounding data privacy and sovereignty is not confined to U.S.-China tensions but is becoming a global phenomenon. Recent events, including tech bans and regulatory developments in various countries, have highlighted the need for a deeper understanding of data politics in international relations.
China as a Trendsetter in Data Governance
China is emerging as a leader in data governance, setting trends that other nations with different ideologies may align with. The Chinese government's recognition of data as a strategic resource has informed its legal and regulatory frameworks, distinguishing it from the more fragmented approaches seen in the U.S. and EU. Initiatives like controlling data localization and establishing a comprehensive cybersecurity law showcase Beijing's proactive stance on data regulation. As China navigates its digital economy, its strategies may serve as a model for other countries grappling with similar issues.
Distinct Characteristics of Data versus Traditional Resources
Data is fundamentally different from traditional strategic resources like oil, particularly due to its non-rivalrous nature, meaning it can be utilized simultaneously by multiple parties without depletion. This characteristic allows for the simultaneous use of data by companies and the state, creating new economic dynamics and raising significant privacy concerns. Unlike oil, which is a privately owned and excludable resource, data's partial excludability leads to challenges in controlling access and ownership. The contrasting characteristics of data necessitate a unique focus on understanding its political and economic implications.
The Global Implications of Data Sovereignty
States are increasingly asserting their data sovereignty, which affects cross-border data flows and international relations. The divergence in how countries regulate data poses challenges for multinational corporations that must navigate conflicting legal landscapes, such as China's strict data localization requirements compared to the U.S.'s Cloud Act. As nations enforce their data regulations, the potential for the 'balkanization of the internet' grows, leading to increased barriers to digital trade. Ultimately, while regions may seek to align their data governance frameworks, the ideological divides between states could complicate global negotiations.
In this episode of Pekingology, originally released on April 21, 2022, Freeman Chair Jude Blanchette is joined by Lizhi Liu, Assistant Professor in the McDonough School of Business and a faculty affiliate of the Department of Government at Georgetown University, to discuss her paper, The Rise of Data Politics: Digital China and the World.
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