No. 53

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Data Exists, Value Does Not: The Next Challenge for Estonia’s Digital Society

27 May 2026

Focus

RiTo No. 53, 2026

Estonia’s problem is not lack of data but weak data use. Despite large volumes, data is poorly integrated, shared, and applied, limiting value for decision-making and services.

Barriers include unclear rules, low data skills, fragmented systems, and weak public–private cooperation. Solutions include stronger data governance (e.g. data stewards), improved data literacy in the public sector, and secure testing environments for innovation. Interoperability and incentives for data sharing are also essential. Ultimately, data use is an institutional and societal challenge. Estonia must build a functioning data-use ecosystem that balances innovation, value, and trust.

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