Abstract

Co-operation between statistical societies and statistical offices is not new. It has practically existed since the origin of these institutions. But it is more relevant today. A crucial element for Development in this 21st century is Public-Private Strategic Alliances or Partnerships. In Statistics, Partnerships are needed to create a meaningful information system, to construct a well-informed society, and to ensure the relevant use of statistics. To inform public debates, to support business decisions, and to nurture public policies. In short, to support development itself. Within the many partnerships required in statistics, the one between National Statistical Offices and National Statistical Societies stands out.

This paper mentions items of valuable support from Statistical Societies to Statistical Offices, thinking primarily of Developing Countries. The collaboration between Statistical Societies and Offices should go both ways. The paper also addresses the importance of the Statistical Offices supporting the Statistical Society. In the developing world this support is still insufficient and needs to be persistent. In this Era of the so called “Information Society”, the “Digital World” and the “Economy of Data”, Statistics is an essential science. It is crucial to have a Solid Statistical Profession,… Inclusive Statistical Societies,… and Modern Statistical Offices to produce and use Statistics for better lives. Partnerships are valuable to achieve these goals.