Commit to Data (C2D)
Mobilizing global commitments to close data gaps, strengthen data systems, and accelerate progress toward sustainable development.
About the Program
Data are essential for sustainable and inclusive development. Governments and organizations use data to understand development challenges, guide policies, and track progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Yet persistent data gaps make it difficult to make informed decisions. Efforts to improve data systems are often disconnected, and organizations struggle to maintain support over time. The UN World Data Forum (UNWDF) brings the global data community together to address data challenges. But turning global discussions into lasting progress requires concrete actions and sustained commitments.
Open Data Watch (ODW) co-leads the Commit to Data (C2D) campaign with PARIS21 to turn ideas into action. Since the 2024 UNWDF in Medellín, the campaign has brought together voluntary, time-bound commitments from governments, international organizations, civil society, and other partners. It has given these commitments global visibility through the UNWDF and promoted their progress through blogs, videos, and other communications. C2D also connects leaders and organizations across sectors to encourage cooperation and inspire new commitments on the Road to Riyadh and beyond. By maintaining engagement between the Forums, the campaign sustains momentum and support for stronger data systems.
What We Do
Visibility & Promotion
ODW works with members of the Collaborative to establish shared priorities and approaches for citizen ODW works with PARIS21 to showcase data initiatives through the C2D website, UN World Data Forum sessions, videos, blogs, and social media. This global exposure helps commitment-makers reach wider audiences, attract potential partners and funding, and inspire others to take action. toward closing data gaps.
Networking & Engagement
ODW helps build a network of commitment-makers from governments, international organizations, civil society, and other sectors. Through events and ongoing engagement, ODW creates opportunities for these organizations to connect, share experiences, and explore collaboration. These relationships bring separate initiatives together on one platform, encourage joint action, and sustain support for improving data systems.
