“Do you like statistics?”

Do you like statistics?

To be honest, I thought it was a pointless addition to the curriculum during my schooling.’ The Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia might even be able to provide data confirming that I was not the only pupil or student with such an opinion.

But later in life, I came to understand more and more why statistics is so important. It is most often associated with telephone surveys that many people find annoying, but its crucial aspect is often ignored: the significance of high-quality data in maintaining a functional democracy.

Indeed. High-quality statistics are the basis for good legislation and the necessary measures to improve the situation, based on independent data covering all aspects and all people. I truly believe this and therefore I am delighted to announce that …

… I have been appointed lead rapporteur for the European legislation on population and housing statistics, and I will be handling it on behalf of the entire European Parliament!’

– Irena

Photo: EP/Alain Rolland