“Data and statistics inform every decision we make”

Data plays a key role in global efforts to improve people’s lives on a healthy planet. UN DESA’s Statistics Division is leading efforts, working together with statisticians and data experts from across the world. Ahead of the annual UN Statistical Commission this month, UN DESA’s Linda Hooper tells us more about this important work.

Can you give our readers some insights into how data plays a role in global efforts to improve our world?

“Data and statistics inform every decision we make. The more you know about a situation, the better informed that decision will be. Great strides have been made in the availability of data for measuring achievement in the SDGs. The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2023: Special edition is a good of example of using data to make a candid assessment of the SDGs. The report coupled with the Global SDG Data Platform provides the latest insights by compiling numerical evidence across the full agenda.”

Later this month, statisticians from across the globe will come together for the 55th session of the UN Statistical Commission. What are some of the main topics in the formal meetings?

“The Statistical Commission is at the apex of the global statistical system. It plays a fundamental role in setting statistical standards and methodologies for national statistical systems. The annual session of the Commission brings together the chief statisticians to deliberate on topics to help guide the Commission’s work.

The Commission will consider how future standards will be set. Some of the topics that will be covered this year include the System of National Accounts, the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics, a resolution on representation in the Commission, social statistics, climate change statistics, population and housing statistics, climate change statistics, and many more. One important celebration this year is the 30th anniversary of the Fundamental Principles of official statistics and the 10th anniversary of its GA adoption.”

What happens alongside the formal meetings? What kind of side events should one look out for?

“The Commission is not only about the formal, intergovernmental meetings. A well curated set of side events is planned, both virtually in the weeks leading up to the Commission, as well as during the Commission week. This year’s side events calendar includes 30 virtual events, including three high-level ones on Beyond GDP, representation in the Commission and the future of population data systems.

At a side event on 17 January, attendees received updates on efforts to go “Beyond GDP” and the importance of the statistical community playing a pivotal role in the development of any metrics that build on existing statistical work.

There are also 51 in-person events, including two high-level events. Emerging issues are brought into the discussions through the Friday Seminar on Emerging Issues. This year’s event focuses on data governance. To mark this anniversary, a high-level forum on official statistics is planned for the afternoon on Monday, 26 February, to bring together some of the key voices as well as examine the continued importance these fundamental principles.

At this year’s session, the Commission will consider a draft resolution which proposes ways for the Commission to be representative and inclusive, and to be fit for purposes in future years.”

For more information: 55th Session of the UN Statistical Commission