Kati Tamtik, the Director General of the Land and Sea Administration in Estonia, emphasizes the importance of high-quality and accessible spatial data, noting its role in enhancing the functioning of government, business, and scientific research. Estonia's digital state has been built on principles of openness and data reusability, which have garnered international recognition and numerous success stories. However, as Tamtik points out, the conversation around data openness has grown complicated in recent times.

The changing security environment and increased sense of vulnerability among citizens, coupled with advances in technology that facilitate data misuse, have escalated concerns regarding the risks associated with publicly available information. Tamtik urges a reassessment of the traditional views on data openness, proposing that the public, government, and organizations need to engage in a new social agreement that addresses these contemporary challenges. This dialogue is essential to ensure that the benefits of accessible data do not compromise public safety and security.

Ultimately, Tamtik's call for a new societal consensus reflects broader discussions happening globally regarding data governance and privacy. It underscores the necessity for stakeholders to collaborate and establish frameworks that balance transparency with protection, ensuring that while the advantages of spatial data are maximized, the associated risks are effectively managed.