Strategies For Effective Data Provision In Conflict Zones Discussed At Regional Forum In Sharjah

A recent panel discussion at the Regional Data and Community Development Forum in Sharjah, held on 9th-10th October, emphasised the crucial role of statistical data in decision-making and emergency response. The event took place at the Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre. Experts discussed strategies for data provision during conflicts and humanitarian crises in the Arab world.

Marwan Khawaja from UN ESCWA highlighted that unstable central authorities often hinder data collection. Independent centres may take over these tasks, but they face challenges due to instability and lack of infrastructure. He noted that conflicts create silos, complicating standardised data collection efforts. Financial constraints and the loss of skilled statisticians further exacerbate these issues.

Ismail Lubad, an expert from UN ESCWA, stressed that statistics are vital for policy-making and societal development. He stated, "Statistics play a critical role in processing and analysing data, helping decision-makers craft policies that address these challenges while steering local and societal development." However, he acknowledged that conflicts in the Arab world have severely impacted statistical systems.

Khawaja provided examples like Gaza and Syria, where infrastructure destruction hampers data collection. Inaccessible areas limit comprehensive data gathering. He explained that without population censuses or other critical data sources, countries struggle to assess their populations accurately. This lack of information affects social and economic planning, especially for women, children, and vulnerable groups.

He said, "Ongoing conflicts make consistent and comprehensive data collection nearly impossible in many areas. Despite this, data remains the lifeblood of policymaking." The absence of reliable data complicates efforts to protect and support vulnerable populations during crises.

Technological Solutions

Magued Osman discussed technology's role in crisis management. He mentioned that AI, machine learning, and satellite data offer alternative methods for gathering information when on-the-ground collection is not feasible. "Technological solutions have begun to offer new ways of addressing data provision in conflict zones," he said. Cloud-based systems ensure data accessibility even when physical infrastructure is compromised.

Osman also emphasised international collaboration's importance for continuous data provision during crises. Stable countries can assist those affected by sharing technology and expertise. International organisations provide indexed data post-conflict when local sources are unavailable.

Ahmed Hussain moderated the session with insights from experts like Osman, Lubad, and Khawaja. They collectively underscored the need for accurate statistical language unification to overcome barriers posed by conflicts. Their discussions highlighted how essential reliable data is for achieving sustainable development goals outlined by the UN’s 2030 Agenda.

The forum concluded with a call for enhanced cooperation among nations to support effective crisis management through improved statistical systems. The experts agreed that leveraging technology alongside international partnerships can significantly aid recovery efforts in conflict-affected regions across the Arab world.

With inputs from WAM