Over a short period of time, AI has moved from the realm of academic research to mainstream adoption, supported by advancements in computational power, the availability of vast datasets, and increasingly more sophisticated algorithms. This rapid growth is reshaping multiple sectors, including healthcare, finance, and transportation. The field of official statistics is no exception. Governments and statistical agencies around the world are exploring how AI can enhance the collection, processing, and dissemination of public data.
Data are a critical foundation for effective and evidence-based policymaking. They allow governments and institutions to understand complex issues, design targeted interventions and monitor outcomes of public policies. Yet, in many cases, data are underused due to challenges in accessibility, integration, or analytical capacity. Advances in AI offer new possibilities to unlock the value and potential of data at all stages of the data value chain and can strengthen the link between data producers and data users to ultimately support more informed and agile decision making.