How can statistics be used to improve development policies and their outcomes? This booklet outlines how the Department for International Development (DFID) is working to promote the availability and use of evidence at country, regional and international levels. It sets out DFID’s statistics strategy and how statisticians contribute to better development policies, more effective use of resources, more accountable partner governments, and more responsive donors. DFID calls for increased resources for statistical capacity building, especially for the 2010 Census Round which many countries are unable to fund.
The availability and use of statistical evidence is central to development and good governance. High quality information produces better knowledge to inform policy development and assessment and ensure maximum aid effectiveness. Most developing countries lack the information to properly assess national priorities; decisions about resources are made without adequate evidence. Lack of investment in statistics can create a cycle of poor development outcomes often associated with poor governance, deepening inequality and negative growth.
DFID statisticians work with partner governments and key stakeholders. They aim to develop effective monitoring and information systems at country level and a comprehensive, coherent and relevant statistical system at international level:
- Partner governments are supported to produce and implement plans to improve their statistical systems. These should be comprehensive and linked to broader planning and budgeting processes.
- DFID promotes the joined-up design, collection and use of statistics. This includes: mainstreaming data improvement across all government sectors; developing mechanisms to disseminate information to build transparency and accountability; and improved analytical capacity.
- Open dialogue between the users and producers of information is encouraged. Citizens and civil society need access to statistics to hold their governments to account.
- Predictable, long-term financing is necessary to support countries’ national statistical strategies.
- At international level DFID aims to: increase the impact of the international system; improve international monitoring, in particular Millennium Development Goals (MDG) reporting and analysis; and improve the effectiveness and accountability of multilateral and bilateral donors.
- The Marrakech Action Plan for Statistics (MAPS) is the cornerstone of DFID’s statistical work. It outlines core actions for improving MDG monitoring and building statistical capacity.
The statistics strategy represents a key part of DFID’s wider focus on results. Good statistics are as important to development as sound public financial management:
- Statisticians within DFID aim to promote a culture of evidence informed decision making throughout the life cycle of projects, programmes and policies.
- DFID also works internally to improve dissemination and communication of evidence and results. This includes meeting reporting requirements on aid delivery and effectiveness, and ensuring knowledge is accessible.
- Substantial increases in resource commitments to statistical development are needed, from both country governments and donors. DFID and other donors promote increased support and additional resources for statistical capacity building.
- Support is particularly urgent for the 2010 Census Round, which presents an opportunity to get a comprehensive picture of what needs to be done and where. Many countries are preparing to undertake a census in the next few years but have not yet secured the necessary resources.
