AI & Te Ao Māori

Māori Data Sovereignty

Māori Data Sovereignty is the right of Māori to govern the collection, ownership, and application of their own data. It asserts that Māori data should be subject to Māori governance.

When we use AI, we must ask: Where does the data come from? Who owns it? And who benefits? For AI to be used respectfully, it must recognise and uphold the rights of Māori to control their own information and stories (taonga).

Partnership means working together in good faith, as outlined in Te Tiriti o Waitangi. In the world of AI, this means Māori must be included as equal partners in the design, development, and monitoring of AI systems.

It is not enough to simply consult with Māori. True partnership involves co-design, shared decision-making, and ensuring that AI tools serve the goals and aspirations of Māori communities.

Protection involves actively safeguarding Māori data, language, and cultural knowledge from misuse, misrepresentation, and exploitation. AI models are trained on vast amounts of information, and there is a risk that sacred or private knowledge could be used without permission.

We need to build systems that protect mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) and ensure that AI does not create harmful stereotypes or spread false information. This includes creating rules and protocols for how data is accessed and used.

Participation ensures that Māori have equitable access to AI technology and the ability to participate fully in the digital world. This is about more than just being users of technology; it's about being creators, developers, and leaders in the field.

To achieve this, we need to create opportunities for Māori to develop digital skills, provide resources for Māori-led AI projects, and ensure that everyone has a voice in shaping how this powerful technology is used in Aotearoa.