Today is World Statistics Day
On 4 September 2008, the United Nations Statistics Division requested countries, regional and international agencies to send their views on the proposal of observing a World Statistics Day on 20-10-2010. The outcome of this consultation was an overwhelming support for this initiative, with around 70 countries and international agencies voicing their support.
The Day is intended to raise awareness on various levels: in countries, regions and around the world.
World Statistics Day (WSD) will strengthen public awareness of the important work that statisticians carry out each day. Through collecting accurate, objective and comparable data they support a wide range of national and international activities, including development efforts that improve the lives of the poor and the vulnerable.
On World Statistics Day, countries will carry out activities and events that highlight the role of official statistics and the many achievements of their national statistical systems. International and regional organizations will also hold promotional activities and events.
"Today (20 October 2010) marks the first observance of World Statistics Day, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to recognize the importance of statistics in shaping our societies," United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said.