Data Findability, Governance, and Community Engagement for M\=aori Research Data Sovereignty

Abstract

M\=aori data sovereignty (MDSov) has established important principles for recognising M\=aori rights and interests in data. Relatively little attention has been given to how these principles can be operationalised within research institutions who, as a function of their operations, collect and use M\=aori data. This paper introduces the concept of M\=aori Research Data Sovereignty (MRDSov), extending existing understandings of MDSov into the specific context of research data and the research data lifecycle. Drawing on Indigenous Data Sovereignty scholarship and research data management literature, we define M\=aori research data and position MRDSov as the application of MDSov principles to research data produced by, about, or for M\=aori. We argue that operationalising MRDSov requires three interdependent elements: data findability, data governance, and community engagement. Data findability enables M\=aori research data to be identified and contextualised; governance provides mechanisms through which M\=aori authority over research data can be exercised; and community engagement grounds both in enduring relationships with M\=aori communities. We further demonstrate how these elements collectively enact the principles of MDSov within institutional research settings, providing a practical pathway for aligning research data practices with Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations and Indigenous data governance expectations. The paper contributes a conceptual framework for universities and other research organisations seeking to embed M\=aori authority, accountability, and relationships throughout the research data lifecycle.