Statistical Literacy in the context of the 2030 Agenda

Task Team 3 works to promote statistical literacy and improve understanding of official statistics among diverse audiences. By fostering shared concepts, mapping initiatives, and encouraging collaboration, the team supports more effective and coordinated statistical literacy efforts across countries.


About

Task Team 3 focuses on strengthening statistical literacy across different audiences, including policymakers, media, students, civil society, and the general public. The team's work recognizes that improving statistical literacy is essential for informed decision-making, effective communication of official statistics, and increased trust in data.

A central objective of the task team is to develop a shared understanding of what statistical literacy means in different contexts. This includes clarifying concepts and definitions and helping national statistical offices better understand the statistical literacy needs of their key audiences. By building common ground among GIST members, the task team supports more coherent and effective approaches to statistical literacy initiatives.

The task team brings together collective experience from member organizations by mapping existing and planned statistical literacy activities and promoting collaboration and synergies. Through shared inventories, guidance development, and knowledge exchange, the team aims to support NSOs in designing, implementing, and scaling statistical literacy initiatives that are relevant, practical, and impactful.


Workplan

During the 2025-2026 period, Task Team 3 will focus on expanding and strengthening the global inventory of statistical literacy initiatives in collaboration with partners, with the aim of increasing coverage, visibility, and participation. The inventory will serve as a shared resource to showcase good practices and encourage collaboration across organizations and regions.

The task team will also continue organizing regular webinars to facilitate knowledge exchange on emerging topics in statistical literacy, including innovative tools, methods, and technologies. In parallel, work will advance on developing technical guidance for NSOs to support the design and implementation of statistical literacy initiatives, drawing on accumulated experience and identified good practices.

Subject to available resources, the task team will explore new collaborative and innovative formats—such as a “Statistical Literacy-thon”—to engage stakeholders, promote innovation, and raise awareness of statistical literacy. These activities will be pursued in partnership with member organizations and external stakeholders, with an emphasis on shared ownership and impact.


Membership


International / Regional Organizations

  • AfDB
  • Afristat
  • ESCAP
  • ISI
  • ISLP TASK TEAM CO-LEAD
  • ODW (Open Data Watch)
  • Pacific Community
  • UN Women
  • UNECA
  • UNITAR
  • UNSD
  • UNSIAP
  • World Bank

National Statistical Offices / Countries

  • Brazil TASK TEAM CO-LEAD
  • India
  • Philippines
  • United Kingdom

Other Task Teams and Working Groups