Hellen Smith

Bio

I am a PhD Researcher in the ERC funded Global Data Justice Project within TILT.  My research interests are in fintech, digital identity and biometric platforms.  My research aims are to understand: use of algorithms as decision making tools in the fintech space, regulation of the fintech and digital identity & biometric data markets, power asymmetries these markets create, and what amounts to equitable use of data and technologies for economic growth and human development. My research focuses on Kenya which is also home for me, as a case study, and data governance globally.

Prior to joining TILT, I worked as a development policy Consultant for the Government of The Bahamas, in the Office of The Prime Minister. Prior to that, I practised commercial and corporate law in law firms in Nassau and was a lecturer in Poverty law and International law at The University of the Bahamas/University of the West Indies law.

Expertise

Commercial and Company Law

Public and Private International Law

Privacy and Data Protection

Development studies and policy

Fintech, digital identity & biometric platforms

Recent publications

1. A DC state of mind? - A review of the World Development Report 2021: …

   Mukiri-Smith, H., Mann, L., & Azmeh, S. (2022). A DC state of mind? A review of the World Development Report 2021: Data for better lives. Development and change, 53(6), 1421-1439.

2. (Re)making data markets - An exploration of the regulatory challenges

   Taylor, L., Mukiri-Smith, H., Petročnik, T., Savolainen, L., & Martin, A. (2022). (Re)making data markets: An exploration of the regulatory challenges. Law, Innovation and Technology, 14(2), 355-394.

3. If a soup is sweet, it is money that cooks it - Digital platforms and…

   Mann, L., Gianluca, I., Mukiri-Smith, H., & Ouma, M. (2021, Dec 15). If a soup is sweet, it is money that cooks it: Digital platforms and the future of farming in Kenya. https://cartoonmovement.typepad.com/3.%20Digital%20Farming%20in%20Kenya%20WEB.pdf

4. Beyond the ‘Brussels effect’? - Kenya’s Data Protection Act (DPA) 201…

   Mukiri-Smith, H., & Leenes, R. (2021). Beyond the ‘Brussels effect’? Kenya’s Data Protection Act (DPA) 2019 and the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 2018. European Data Protection Law Review, 7(4), 502-519.

5. Human rights, technology and poverty

   Taylor, L., & Mukiri-Smith, H. (2021). Human rights, technology and poverty. In M. F. Davis, M. Kjaerum, & A. Lyons (Eds.), Research handbook on human rights and poverty (pp. 535-549). (Research Handbooks in Human Rights ). Edward Elgar.