Methods and Planning Division at BSS

[Audio] Hello everyone. The Methods and Planning wishes to share more about our division with you. Please watch this video to learn more about us..

[Audio] Today, we wish to discuss some documents that are essential to not only our division but all divisions here at the Barbados Statistical Service. As the Methods and Planning Division is responsible for ensuring that methodologies for statistical outputs produced in the B-S-S and the N-S-S are sound and accurate, we are required to be knowledgeable of two very important documents. These are: The United Nations Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics CARICOM Statistics Code of Practice.

[Audio] The United Nations fundamental principles of official statistics was created because the need for a set of principles governing official statistics became apparent at the end of the 1980 seconds when countries in Central Europe began to change from centrally planned economies to market-oriented democracies. It was essential to ensure that national statistical systems in such countries would be able to produce appropriate and reliable data that adhered to certain professional and scientific standards. Now, there are several reasons why the United Nations Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics is crucial. Trust and Credibility: They establish standards that enhance the reliability and credibility of statistical data, fostering public trust. Transparency and Accountability: The principles promote transparency in statistical processes, ensuring that data collection and dissemination are conducted ethically and responsibly. Consistency and Comparability: They provide a framework for consistent data collection across different countries, facilitating international comparisons and analyses. Policy Development: Reliable statistics inform policymakers, enabling evidence-based decision-making that can lead to improved governance and social development. Public Awareness: By ensuring quality and accessibility of data, these principles help raise awareness about societal issues and empower citizens with information. Support for Sustainable Development: High-quality statistics are essential for monitoring progress towards sustainable development goals, helping to identify areas needing attention and resources. Overall, adherence to these principles strengthens the integrity and utility of official statistics worldwide..

[Audio] The CARICOM Statistics Code of Practice is an adaptation of the United Nations Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics. It was created to enhance the quality, credibility and comparability of official statistics among member states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Its development was driven by the need for: 1. Standardization: To establish uniform standards for statistical practices across member countries, promoting consistency in data collection and reporting. 2. Quality Assurance: To ensure that statistical data collected and disseminated by member states meet high standards of quality, reliability and relevance. 3. Enhanced Credibility: To build public trust in official statistics through transparent and ethical practices, thereby increasing the credibility of the data, 4. Informed Decision-Making: To provide reliable and comparable data that supports evidence-based policymaking and development initiatives in the region. 5. Capacity Building: To strengthen the capabilities of national statistical offices and enhance the overall statistical infrastructure within member states. 6. International Alignment: To align regional statistical practices with international standards, improving the cooperation with global statistical bodies and enhancing data comparability. Overall, the code aims to improve the effectiveness and reliability of statistics in CARICOM, ultimately supporting sustainable development in the region..

[Audio] That is all for now. Thank you for taking the time to watch this video. Until next time..