Three elements underpin this theme and shape the dynamic and comprehensive agenda of our upcoming Conference.

1. Open data as the norm

We are moving away from EITI Reports as the principal way of capturing EITI disclosures and increasingly embracing open data as the norm...Mainstreaming through open data improves availability, timeliness and cost-effectiveness of data disclosures, and responds to the growing demand for accessible and usable information from citizens...

2. Building trust as the bedrock

A perceived lack of progress in tackling corruption, tax evasion and illicit financial flows associated with the extractives sector is contributing to the rise of populism and economic nationalism. The impact of oil, gas and mining industries is often a focal point of public concern and a potent source of conflict...At a time when trust in government is under strain around the world and politics are becoming increasingly polarised, building trust is important as ever.

3. Demonstrating relevance for the global agenda

As a global initiative, we are expected to demonstrate the relevance of extractives transparency. This perspective is now more strongly reflected in the 2019 EITI Standard, with fresh commitments on gender and environment that speak to larger global agendas captured in the Sustainable Development Goals...There is an opportunity to demonstrate how the EITI can help highlight corruption risks and contribute to potential solutions, through the growing emphasis on beneficial ownership transparency and with contract transparency becoming a requirement in the 2019 Standard...