Amman, Oct. 19 (Petra) – The Higher Population Council underscored on Sunday the pivotal role of accurate and reliable digital data in designing, implementing, and evaluating national policies and programs, stressing that quality statistics are essential for informed decision-making and sustainable development.
In a statement issued on World Statistics Day, celebrated October 20, the Council said that precise data form the foundation for effective public policy and operational planning, enabling governments and institutions to assess demographic and service realities, anticipate future needs, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Council noted that Jordan joins other countries in marking the event, commemorated every five years under a United Nations General Assembly resolution. This year’s celebration coincides with the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, which established several organizations specializing in statistical work, including the United Nations Statistical Commission and the Population Division. The 2025 observance is held under the theme "Quality statistics and data for everyone," aimed at emphasizing the value of data in guiding decision-making at the national level.
The Council clarified that it does not produce data but rather utilizes existing data through its technical expertise to play an active role within the national statistical system led by the Department of Statistics. It works to enhance the quality of data generated from administrative records across key national institutions, including the Ministries of Health and Digital Economy, the Chief Justice’s Department, the Civil Status and Passports Department, the Residency and Borders Administration, and the Social Security Corporation, in accordance with international principles of official statistics.
Accurate data, the Council said, serve as the cornerstone for measuring progress toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, helping policymakers monitor achievements, identify gaps, and formulate evidence-based policies. Jordan’s National Statistical System also supports the implementation of the Economic Modernization Vision 2033 by providing timely data across demographic, economic, social, and environmental sectors.
The Council highlighted Jordan’s progress in building national capacities in statistical collection, analysis, and dissemination, alongside adopting advanced technologies, developing digital platforms, and introducing academic programs in data science.
It noted that recent years have witnessed significant legislative updates, including the Law on the Right to Access Information, amendments to the General Statistics Law, the Law on Personal Data Protection, and the National Statistical Strategy. Additionally, the establishment of the National Information Center within the Department of Statistics marks a key step ahead of the upcoming General Population and Housing Census.
The Council affirmed Jordan’s recognized international standing in data quality and availability, calling for the promotion of a statistical culture and greater public confidence in official figures. The Council advocated launching regional data-exchange initiatives and strengthening partnerships with the private sector and academia to develop innovative approaches to data management and analysis.
//Petra// AJ
