An Effective Global Statistical System A Pre-requisite for Consistency in Global Measurement Dennis Trewin, Statistical Consultant

Outline of Talk Why is the global statistical system important? What is the global statistical system? Strengths and weaknesses of the global statistical system Suggestions on a way forward

Why is the global statistical system important? Increasing importance of global measures – globalisation impacts all countries Need to strengthen the capability of National Statistical Offices Cohesion across National Statistical Offices

What is the global statistical system? International and regional organisations that are providers of statistics UN Statistical Commission Committee for Co-ordination of Statistical Activities International statistical standards Principles and protocols governing international statistical activities National Statistical Systems

Strengths of Global Statistical System UN Statistical Commission Economic Statistical Standards Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics Increased funding for statistical capacity building

Strengths of Global Statistical System Development of international data bases Global statistical projects (eg ICP) and international surveys (eg PISA) Increased co-operation among the international statistical agencies Principles governing international statistical activities

Weaknesses of the Global Statistical System Quality of international data bases is not always high (eg reliance on imputation) Limited influence of UNSC over many international agencies (except by co-operation) Weakening of statistical units in most regional commissions Insufficient lateral mobility between UN agencies

Weaknesses of Global Statistical System International Statistical Standards not strong for social statistics possible political influence expensive to develop and reach concensus implementation not always strong Statistical capacity is still low in many countries

A Way Forward Development of a strategic plan for the Global Statistical System Improved co-ordination

A Way Forward (Relatively Easy) UNSC exerting its leadership role and give final authority for statistical standards A federated model for the dissemination of official statistics Review of process for developing international statistical standards

A Way Forward (Hard) Real commitment from the international agencies Improve effectiveness of CCSA Improved co-ordination among donors Review governance arrangements for regional bodies where existing arrangements are not working

A Way Forward (Hard) A project management approach to the implementation of international statistical standards and other international programs More flexibility in recruitment Review scope and coverage of international statistics

A Way Forward (Very Hard) Establish a Global Statistical Office Strengthen the role of the Bureau of UNSC