mydata

Mydata, often written as MyData, is a framework and global movement that aims to give individuals greater control over their personal data and to build interoperable, privacy‑respecting data ecosystems. It emphasizes data portability, transparent consent, and user‑centered design so people can see, share, and reuse their data across services with trust and accountability.

Originating in the Nordic privacy and human‑centric technology communities in the 2010s, MyData has grown into an international network of organizations, researchers, and companies. It promotes a shared set of values and practices rather than a single technical standard.

Core principles include respect for the data subject, informed and revocable consent, data minimization, transparency, portable data, and accountability. Its practical architecture often involves roles such as data subjects, data holders, data users, and data intermediaries or operators that facilitate secure, consented data sharing using open standards.

Applications range from personal data stores and health data platforms to citizen services. Proponents argue that MyData can boost innovation while strengthening privacy protections; critics point to governance, interoperability, and business‑model challenges. The approach is generally compatible with the EU's GDPR and other data‑protection regimes as a complement.

Organizations such as MyData Global coordinate the movement, publish resources, and convene events to support local implementations and research.