Between data and rights: data-related injustice risks in the datafication of brazilian digital public services

Abstract

With the increase in the use of Information and Communication Technologies, an exponential growth in the volume and variety of available data is observed. This expansion has provided several opportunities to create actions based on these data and to transform society through new electronic services. This article discusses how governments provide services through automated data identification and analysis. Thus, the present study sought to understand how the risks of data injustice in the datafication of digital public services are being considered in Brazil. To this end, a qualitative approach was adopted, based on the case of the COVID-19 Emergency Aid, as an example of the implementation of a digital public service based on the intensive use of data in the Global South. By proposing a conceptual model based on the theoretical framework of datafication, the article discusses the risks associated with data justice through the analysis of a real case. The results reveal that there are still significant gaps in the mechanisms designed to mitigate risks and ensure adherence to basic data rights, transparency, fair procedures, and equity in outcomes. Because not all concepts related to the risks of inequality and data injustice are disseminated among the public agents responsible for implementing data-intensive electronic government services, the debate on digital exclusion remains relevant.