Abstract: Comparable regional statistical data for Germany are becoming increasingly
important. Regional classifications and standards are fundamental to such
data. The European Union (EU) in particular, but also the Organisation for
Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), have carried out vital
preliminary work in this area. For example, they have created a hierarchical
and non-overlapping territorial classification and laid down criteria for
the classification of regions. These classifications are essential in order
to be able to conduct harmonised, transboundary sub-national analyses, as
required for `open government' or for the EU's funding programmes and
environmental and sustainability policy. An overview of the current regional
statistical data for Germany as provided by federal statistics completes the
analyses.
Keywords: Geospatial integration, official statistics for evidence based policies, regional typologies, small area statistics, NUTS, Geospatial Information System (GIS), INSPIRE, measuring well-being and sustainability, Open Government, monitoring political strategies
