Statistikaametid

Statistikaametid are official agencies or offices responsible for producing, compiling and disseminating statistical information about a country or region. They collect data on demographics, the economy, labor, health, education, agriculture and other areas to support public policy, research and public information.

Typical functions include designing and conducting surveys and censuses, integrating administrative records, processing and quality-assuring data, developing classifications and standards, and publishing statistical releases, tables and metadata. Statistikaametid often operate under a legal framework that defines their mandate, ensures professional independence and requires confidentiality and protection of individual data.

Methodologies used by statistikaametid follow internationally recognised standards and best practices, such as UN principles and standards promoted by regional organisations. Common techniques include sampling, weighting, imputation, seasonal adjustment and the use of administrative data. Transparency about methods and measures of quality is a key part of their work.

Statistical offices cooperate with ministries, central banks, research institutions and international bodies to harmonise definitions and enable comparability. They serve multiple user groups: policymakers, businesses, researchers and the general public. Emerging challenges include rapid datafication, privacy concerns, resource constraints and the need to produce timely high-quality statistics in a digital environment. Statistikaametid increasingly focus on open data, data visualisation and access while maintaining confidentiality and methodological integrity.