Fostering the fundamental principles of official statistics

Abstract

This paper presents some modest suggestions for fostering the Fundamental Principles, particularly in a global setting, to widen the exposure of statistical units in ministries and central banks to the Principles, and with an emphasis on international statistical guidelines. It suggests (1) making concrete, practical examples of work that promotes the Principles available on an Internet-based Reference Site, (2) agreeing on a format to be used to make explicit the extent to which international statistical guidelines are followed, and (3) looking for ways to foster cross-agency interest and understanding by providing forums and discussion of topics that emphasize the commonality of interests across agencies. Next, it considers briefly how to go from principles to practices by developing a catalogue of good statistical practices. Finally, it takes up the question of monitoring national practices under the Principles, where it suggests a process of peer accrediting.