10 In 2020, WHO introduced a data governance framework to streamline and strengthen its end-to-end processes and systems for collecting, storing, analysing, disseminating and using data. These are based on standards, solutions and structures, including the Data Governance Committee and the Hub and Spoke Collaborative.
Data Governance Committee
20 The Data Governance Committee is the political and decision-making authority for data. Its role is to set the corporate direction for data strategy and policy. Its responsibilities include:
- providing oversight;
- promoting data as a strategic asset throughout WHO;
- setting the strategic direction for the Hub and Spoke Collaborative (see paragraph 30);
- providing political insight;
- ensuring consistency in the approach to partnerships, donor engagement and messaging;
- ensuring due diligence is applied to clearance and validation processes;
- monitoring the application of WHO’s data principles, policies and accountability framework; and
- taking the final decision on data-related matters.
Data Hub and Spoke Collaborative
30 The Hub and Spoke Collaborative provides scientific, statistical and operational standards to ensure coherence, alignment and efficiencies. It is based on a federated governance mechanism involving technical departments at headquarters and regional and country offices. Its role is to collaboratively implement data governance across all three levels of the Organization by applying technical and contextual expertise to streamline end-to-end processes and systems for collecting, storing, analysing, disseminating and using data. Its responsibilities include:
- formulating and implementing data principles, norms, standards, policies and tools;
- building capacity in data collection, storage, analysis, dissemination and use;
- supporting the coordination of feedback and input from Member States;
- assessing compliance with data policies, guidelines and tools;
- implementing the World Health Data Hub (see section XXII.1.3);
- sharing good practices and country examples;
- strengthening linkages and partnerships;
- improving vetting, clearance and reporting procedures; and
- decision-making.
