Every five years, on October 20, the world celebrates World Statistics Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of statistics in shaping our societies. This initiative was launched by the United Nations in 2010, highlighting the crucial role of reliable, timely, and accurate data in improving governance, decision-making, and accountability. This year’s theme is “Connecting the world with data we can trust.”

The importance of statistics in modern Society

Today, data is everywhere. It influences decisions concerning health, education, the environment, and the economy. Governments rely on statistics to formulate policies, businesses use data to improve their services, and citizens rely on statistics to make better decisions in their daily lives, such as in finance and health.

However, statistics’ role is even deeper. They help us understand and tackle global challenges such as poverty, hunger, climate change, and inequalities. Through data analysis, statistics provide us with valuable insights to create targeted solutions.

Trust in data: the foundation of progress

World Statistics Day highlights the importance of trusting the data we use. Reliable statistical information is critical for decision-making, especially in times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, reliable data formed the basis for managing the health crisis, monitoring the spread of the virus and planning the availability of vaccines. With reliable statistics, the response would be smooth and effective.

The United Nations and other international organisations promote the development of statistical systems characterised by impartiality, professionalism, and transparency so that governments and citizens can rely on accurate and reliable information to make important decisions.

Challenges for Global Statistical Systems

Despite statistics’ vital importance, global statistical systems face significant challenges. In many developing countries, a lack of infrastructure and resources limits the collection of accurate data. This creates gaps in understanding of critical issues such as health, education, and employment. In addition, the rise of misinformation undermines citizens’ trust in data.

International cooperation is crucial to overcoming these challenges. Governments, non-governmental organisations, and private actors must work together to ensure every country has the tools and resources to collect accurate and reliable data.

The role of big data and AI

In recent years, technology has revolutionised the field of statistics. Big data, machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) offer new ways to collect, process and analyse vast amounts of information. These tools have the potential to provide new insights and enable faster responses to emerging issues.

However, the increase in the amount of data brings with it the need for solid data governance systems. Privacy protection, data ownership and potential misuse of information must be taken seriously. The world must find the balance between harnessing the power of data and protecting the rights of individuals.

How you can participate

On World Statistics Day, the United Nations encourages everyone to get involved in promoting the importance of statistics and the understanding of data in their communities. Governments, organisations, and citizens are invited to participate in events, seminars, and online campaigns highlighting the importance of data-based decision-making.

Statistics professionals can use this day to reaffirm their commitment to ethical practices, transparency, and the production of reliable data.

World Statistics Day is not just a celebration for statisticians and data scientists. It’s a reminder to all of us about the critical role data plays in modern society. As we face global challenges, the value of reliable and confidential statistics cannot be underestimated. Today, let’s celebrate the power of data and continue to build a future based on informed decision-making and international collaboration.