The International Day of Statistics is celebrated on October 20 under the guidance of the United Nations Statistical Commission. This year”s theme is “Driving Change with Quality Statistics and Data for All,” with the next observance scheduled for 2030.
Statistics, often humorously described as the science that suggests if one person eats a chicken while another does not, they have each consumed half a chicken, play a crucial role in modern society. The significance of statistics is underscored by their role in accurately describing reality. A thorough understanding of how statistics are generated, mathematically treated, adhered to standards, and displayed is vital to appreciating their true value.
Reliable and comparable statistics are essential for informed decision-making by governments, businesses, and individuals. They form the foundation for understanding complex global phenomena, monitoring progress towards critical development goals, and designing effective public policies. The global statistical system operates under a shared ethical and professional framework, as established by the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics adopted by the United Nations. These principles were initially endorsed by the UN Statistical Commission in 1994 and reaffirmed by the UN General Assembly in 2014.
Key principles include:
- Professional Standards and Ethics: To maintain public trust, statistical agencies must base their methods and procedures on professional considerations, scientific principles, and ethical standards.
- Accountability and Transparency: Agencies are required to provide information regarding their sources, methods, and procedures in alignment with scientific standards to facilitate accurate data interpretation.
- Confidentiality: Individual data collected for statistical purposes, whether from individuals or organizations, must be kept strictly confidential and used solely for statistical analysis.
- International Cooperation and Use of International Standards: Data must be presented comparably at all levels, with international statistics relying heavily on the adoption of common standards and classifications.
Adhering to these principles transforms statistics into a vital public good, fostering transparency and accountability in governance. Without such adherence, statistics become ineffective and potentially misleading. Trust in data is not merely an abstract ideal; it is a practical necessity for citizens and businesses to voluntarily and accurately provide the data that serves as the foundation for quality statistics.
In Spain and the Canary Islands, there is a commendable level of compliance with these principles. Both the National Statistics Institute (INE) and the Canary Islands Statistics Institute (ISTAC) offer easy access through their websites to a wealth of data relevant for current affairs tracking. Thus, remember to share the chicken you plan to eat; it promotes healthier statistics.
