Data Science can be described as extracting meaningful patterns from data using machine learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI), and visualization methods. A new generation of tools and technologies is being used to exploit the growth and availability of these new data sources and innovative methods to provide richly informed measurements and analyses of the economy and well-being.

The UN Statistical Commission established the UN Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UNCEBD) ten years ago to explore the benefits and challenges of using new data sources and corresponding new methods, tools, and applications. In 2022, UNCEBD created the Data Science Leaders Network (DSLN) to develop guidelines for integrating AI and data science in the work of statistical offices. AI and data science can be used to automate business processes, to gain efficiency in the work of statistical offices, or to develop fast indicators for emerging issues.

Without a doubt, AI and data science will continue to play an important part in the modernization and evolution of the production processes of statistical offices for better statistics and indicators in support of policy and decision-making. This modernization is considered in many countries today an integral part of the whole-of-government approach in mainstreaming AI and data science as an integral part of their data strategy recognizing data as an asset.

DSLN embarked on the preparation of a Playbook on how to integrate Data Science in the work of National Statistical Offices (NSOs). After several virtual events in 2023, it held a first in-person Sprint in Dubai in January 2024 on the topic of integrating data science into the production of official statistics to inform and enhance policy decisions, with a special focus on the transport sector.

Recently, DSLN and the United Nations Network of Economic Statisticians agreed to organize a Sprint aimed at enhancing the capabilities of NSOs in the use of innovative AI and data science applications for the production and dissemination of economic statistics. This Sprint was conceived as organizing two preparatory webinars in November and December 2024 and concluding with the international symposium in Dubai on 20-22 January 2025 hosted by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center (FCSC) of the United Arab Emirates.

The International Symposium on AI and Data Science Sprint for Economic Statistics is poised to be a pivotal event in the ongoing efforts of the statistical community to integrate advanced data science techniques within the framework of national and international data and statistical strategies. By highlighting successful use cases and discussing the strategic integration of new data and technologies, the international symposium will help in shaping the future of economic statistics production, including emerging issues related to the digital economy.

The international symposium will also be an important step in the further development of the Data Science Leadership Network playbook and seeks to empower NSOs with cutting-edge tools and methodologies for statistical production.

All efforts are made to provide a broad horizon scan of ongoing use cases undertaken at the national and international levels by the statistical community and its partners. With the focus on economic statistics, appropriate reference will be made to the new elements of the System of National Accounts 2025, particularly those related to the digital economy and digital well-being, and to the recently adopted Global Digital Compact (additional resource) as a key policy framework to consider. The Compact emphasizes the need for global cooperation in closing digital divides, expanding of inclusion in and benefits from the digital economy for all, promoting inclusive and secure digital spaces, and advancing sustainable development through digital technologies. It focuses on equitable access to digital resources, responsible data and AI governance, and the use of emerging technologies like AI for the benefit of humanity.

The international symposium will be held in Dubai on 20, 21, and 22 January and will be hosted by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center of the United Arab Emirates. It will consist of a high-level segment on 20 January followed by technical segments on 21 and 22 January.

The high-level segment will consist of keynote addresses and expert panels on the policy use of AI and data science with a particular focus on the impact of digital transformation on economic decision-making.

The technical segment will consist of interactive discussions through Q&A and breakout sessions that follow the presentations to foster interactive discussions, enabling participants to dive deeper into specific topics and share experiences. These interactive discussions will be combined with expert panels comprising leaders in statistics, economics, and digital transformation providing insights on the integration of traditional data and techniques with new data technologies into statistical and data workflows in support of policymaking for the economy.