The Syrian Planning and Statistics Authority participated in the 2025 World Statistics Day activities, organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA). During the event, the Authority announced its preparations for an upcoming population census, following years of war.
In an online address, Anas Salim, Chairman of the Authority, emphasized the significance of World Statistics Day as a celebration of the power of numbers and data, which form the cornerstone of progress and development. He highlighted that data is essential for understanding citizens’ living conditions and shaping future policies.
Salim revealed that the Planning and Statistics Authority has already started revitalizing Syria’s statistical system, a challenging task. Efforts are focused on restarting key surveys, such as the Food Security Survey, Multi-Indicator Cluster Survey, and Labor Force Survey, all of which will provide crucial data to assess the socio-economic situation of the population.
Additionally, the Authority is preparing for a rapid population census to update demographic data. Plans are also underway to launch the general population and housing census in the near future, he added.
A national electronic data platform is being developed to serve as a unified portal for disseminating data in accordance with international statistical standards, making it easily accessible for researchers, planners, and the public.
Salim also mentioned that Syria is working to upgrade its national accounts system to meet international standards, providing a more accurate picture of Syria’s economic performance.
After years of war, Syria faces a significant data gap due to the destruction of infrastructure and the suspension of many routine statistical operations. This gap is hindering the country’s ability to assess its reality accurately and plan effectively for the future. Salim affirmed that rebuilding the country’s statistical system is essential, not optional, and that international cooperation is crucial to achieving this goal.
He emphasized Syria’s ongoing collaboration with the United Nations statistical system, as well as Arab, regional, and international bodies.
