DATA AND INFORMATION MANAGEMENT The study looked into the use of SDG-aligned monitoring frameworks and data gathering processes used by the sector for direct reporting on mine action contributions, to understand the benefits and remaining challenges of this adaptation. Information management systems in the case study countries were also observed to understand the extent to which the data management systems were adapted to the 2030 Agenda, with the goal of standardising and measuring mine action outcomes as contributors to the achievement of global and nationalised SDGs. With regard to this, the BHMAC reported that their information management (IM) system “captures outcomes that can document the progress on the SDG contributions”, by closely following mine action strategy goals which are in line with the SDGs. 90 Similarly, the NRA reported that their national database system – the Information Management System for Mine Action (IMSMA) – is used for the UXO sector to measure the achievements of SDG targets. In addition, the NRA uses the SDG monitoring framework for data gathering. For instance, the NRA reported that casualty numbers entered into IMSMA allow the achievement of the SDG 18 target on casualty reduction to be measured. 91 Despite some progress in aligning IM systems with SDG monitoring and reporting frameworks, the research found that IM is still one of the most challenging areas in both case study countries, since the NMAAs face difficulties relating to data collection from different actors, including structuring standards and data disaggregation. These challenges also hinder the establishment of SDG linkages. Among the current challenges identified are a lack of concrete linkages with the SDGs, historic mismanagement of the IM systems, the complicated nature of the IM processes, and lack of specific capacity, especially in terms of SDG-aligned outcomes. 92 In addition, the NRA stated that one of the main IM challenges was ensuring the accuracy of the data collected. This was reported mainly as a result of having a varying high number of operators in the country which often work in very remote areas, making it difficult to ensure proper coordination and communication. 93 In this context, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Lao UXO Unit stated that “there is a need for Lao PDR to have a more versatile IM platform which would react, automatically, to changes within the SDGs and would also be able to report on the SDGs”. In addition to this, a need for capacity assessment was also raised to better understand the current IM situation and capacities, and how it can be improved to reach the level where there is strong national ownership, sustainability and donor confidence. 94
Part 2 – Are the Sustainable Development Goals being used by the mine action sector? 27
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