Valdis Dombrovskis Addresses 111th Conference of Directors General of National Statistical Institutes in Brussels

According to the European Commission Press Corner, the crucial role of accurate and timely data in modern governance was brought to the forefront as Valdis Dombrovskis delivered a major address at the 111th Conference of Directors General of National Statistical Institutes. Hosted in Brussels on October 28, 2026, the prestigious gathering convened top statistical minds and agency directors from across the region to discuss the future trajectory of data collection, economic measuring, and institutional transparency. As political and economic landscapes grow increasingly complex, the need for reliable statistical frameworks has never been more pronounced, making the discussions held during this conference exceptionally relevant for policymakers and public administrators alike. The conference marked a significant milestone as its 111th installment, demonstrating a long-standing tradition of cooperation among national statistical bodies. Valdis Dombrovskis addressed the assembled leaders, emphasizing how foundational high-quality data is for shaping effective public policies and maintaining public trust. In an era defined by rapid technological shifts, economic fluctuations, and emerging societal challenges, statistical institutes are tasked with modernizing their methodologies while upholding strict standards of accuracy and independence. The insights shared during the Brussels conference are expected to influence how statistical offices adapt to new digital realities, including the integration of big data and advanced analytics into traditional reporting structures. National Statistical Institutes serve as the bedrock of evidence-based policymaking, providing the objective metrics required to evaluate everything from inflation rates and labor market dynamics to demographic shifts and environmental targets. Without the rigorous work performed by these agencies, governments would be navigating complex economic waters blindfolded. The address by Dombrovskis underscored the European Commission's continued support for these institutes, highlighting their indispensable contribution to democratic accountability and sound economic management. Attendees engaged in robust debates regarding best practices for harmonizing data collection methods across borders, ensuring that cross-national comparisons remain reliable and meaningful. Furthermore, the conference provided a vital platform for addressing contemporary threats to data integrity, such as misinformation and the challenges of measuring digital economies that defy traditional tracking models. As the 111th Conference of Directors General of National Statistical Institutes drew to a close in Brussels, participants departed with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer roadmap for the future. The collaboration fostered during the event guarantees that national statistical offices will continue to evolve in tandem with the societies they measure, providing the clear, objective insights necessary for navigating the challenges of tomorrow.