MICS GIS, Publications

GEOGRAPHIC DATA IN MICS: ANONYMISATION AND DISSEMINATION

A new methodological paper on anonymising MICS cluster location data for public dissemination.

MICS GIS, Publications
GEOGRAPHIC DATA IN MICS: ANONYMISATION AND DISSEMINATION
25 September 2024
25 September 2024

Anonymising geographic data allows for in-depth spatial analyses, such as assessing environmental factors, population distribution, and health outcomes across different regions, without compromising the privacy of survey respondents. These datasets will enable new studies on how location influences child welfare, environmental risks, and access to services, and they also create new opportunities for evidence-based decision-making in global child welfare, public health, and social policy.

A new paper, Geographic Displacement Procedures and Dissemination of Geocoded Data in the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) Programme, offers a comprehensive overview of techniques for ensuring the privacy of MICS household survey respondents while facilitating access to geocoded data for researchers and policymakers.  

The paper outlines the process of geographically displacing survey cluster locations by random distances and angles, thereby anonymising sensitive geographic data while maintaining its integrity and usability. The MICS Geocode Plugin tool assists in identifying cluster centroids and executing geographic displacement, providing users with practical steps for applying the methodology. To effectively use that plugin in MICS and other household surveys, detailed instructions and practical examples are provided.

By balancing confidentiality and utility, this work demonstrates the potential of spatial data to broaden the scope of MICS and other household surveys without compromising the privacy of survey participants. In addition to the technical anonymisation, the GPS data release policy of the MICS Programme ensures secure dissemination of geocoded data while safeguarding respondent confidentiality, with strict protocols for accessing and using the data responsibly.

With this methodological foundation, MICS surveys will be better equipped to serve the growing demand for geocoded data and contribute more effectively to global research efforts in critical areas such as sustainable development, urban planning, climate risk assessment and health monitoring.