Commit To Data Panel Led By GASTAT Advances Global Data Governance Ahead Of UNWDF 2026

The General Authority for Statistics held an online panel titled "Commit to Data," bringing together international specialists to discuss statistics and development. The event formed part of the Road to Riyadh programme, which prepares for the sixth UN World Data Forum 2026 in November 2026, when Saudi Arabia will host global data stakeholders.

The virtual gathering focused on how better data systems can support policy choices and long-term development planning. Organisers linked the discussion to Saudi Arabia’s broader Road to Riyadh activities, designed to show readiness for the UN World Data Forum 2026 and align national statistical practice with fast-changing global data standards.

During the panel, GASTAT outlined the strategic framework guiding Road to Riyadh events, which include specialised forums, seminars, workshops and hybrid panel discussions. These activities, held in recent months and scheduled ahead, aim to strengthen cooperation with regional and international partners and highlight how Saudi Arabia’s statistical system adapts to global developments.

President of GASTAT Fahad Aldossari used opening remarks to underline the central role of data in public governance. Aldossari explained that a firm commitment to statistics supports stronger institutional oversight, improves integration of datasets, and underpins informed decision-making processes, while also supporting the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals at national and international levels.

Aldossari noted that the panel underlines GASTAT’s intention to deepen multilateral cooperation on statistics and data. He said this collaboration helps strengthen the use of evidence in addressing complex development issues. The event also reflects efforts to build comprehensive and reliable data ecosystems, and to convert political commitments into concrete, measurable gains for sustainable development.

The discussion was organised with the UN Statistics Division, PARIS21 and Open Data Watch. Speakers included Acting Director of the UN Statistics Division Shantanu Mukherjee and Executive Head of PARIS21 Johannes Jütting. Managing Director of Open Data Watch Shaida Badiee also joined, alongside experts working on gender equality statistics and regional statistical capacity.

Participants from different institutions contributed views on inclusive data initiatives and cooperation models. The panel gathered Senior Program Manager of the Equality Insights Program at the International Women’s Development Agency Amelia Greaves, Senior Administrative Officer at the Ghana Statistical Service Cyrus Darpoh, and Director of the African Centre for Statistics at the UN Samuel Annim, reflecting a broad geographic perspective.

The line-up further included Director General of the Statistical, Economic and Social Research and Training Centre for Islamic Countries Zehra Selçuk, Director General of International Partnerships at GASTAT Haitham Alghulaiga, and Ian Rutherford from the UN Statistics Division. Their interventions supported discussion on how national and international partners can use data initiatives to address development priorities and prepare effectively for the UN World Data Forum 2026.

With inputs from SPA