Research and Statistics

The Research and Statistics Program collaborates with official statisticians at international, regional, and national levels to develop data essential for informing policymakers, researchers, and advocates about the size and significance of the informal economy. This program works to make data accessible and promotes data-based research on informal sector employment and related topics, ultimately aiming to raise awareness and understanding of informal work dynamics. Several factors make this program unique:

• Collaboration with Official Statisticians: The program collaborates with official statisticians at international, regional, and national levels. This partnership ensures the reliability and credibility of the data produced, as it is based on rigorous statistical methodologies and standards.
• Focus on Data Accessibility: A key aspect of the program is its dedication to making data accessible to a wide range of stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, and advocates. By disseminating data through user-friendly formats and platforms, the program ensures that information on the informal economy is readily available and usable for decision-making and advocacy purposes.
• Promotion of Data-Based Research: The program actively promotes data-based research on informal sector employment and related topics. By encouraging researchers to utilize the data provided, the program contributes to the generation of evidence-based insights that inform policies and interventions aimed at addressing challenges faced by informal workers.
• Awareness and Understanding: Through its efforts, the program seeks to raise awareness and understanding of informal work dynamics among policymakers, researchers, and the general public. By shedding light on the size and significance of the informal economy, the program facilitates informed discussions and actions to support and empower informal workers.
• Adaptability and Innovation: The program demonstrates adaptability and innovation in responding to evolving challenges and needs related to data collection and analysis in the informal economy. By leveraging new technologies, methodologies, and partnerships, the program continuously enhances the quality and relevance of its data products.

Overall, the Research and Statistics Program's emphasis on collaboration, accessibility, research promotion, awareness raising, and adaptability positions it as a vital resource for advancing knowledge and policy action in the field of informal economy dynamics.