Paradox of data commons: governance lessons from a health data intermediary multi-case study

The future of digitalization depends on implementing the right model for data governance, balancing rights, values, and societal goals. This research investigates a matched triple of health Data Intermediaries (DIs) – public authority Findata, data cooperative Midata, and non-governmental foundation Donate Your Data – to understand how different DI models impact data governance goals and the rules-in-use. I find that the choice of the DI model influences data governance and thus the pursued goals. But the findings also reveal a paradox, where DIs couple and balance extractivism with privacy, collectivism with self-determination, and trust with economic gain. Embracing this paradox instead of resolving it is what leads to successful governance. This study contributes to the theoretical development of data governance studies by offering insights that can support policymakers in designing effective institutions.