Statistical office and studies

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Dubois, M.¹

Note: [1] Paul Dubois is, since 1978, director of economic syntheses (business cycle, plan works, regional studies, research) at INSEE (France). He graduated from the ‘Ecole Polytechnique’ and the ‘Ecole Nationale de la Statistique et de l'Administration Economique’. In the framework of technical co-operation, he worked in Morocco from 1958 to 1962. During 1962–1971, he was employed at INSEE, first charged with studies and subsequently responsible for the programming division. He was chief of the enterprises department from 1972 to 1978.

Abstract: Is it desirable for a statistical office to engage in substantive studies and predictions? INSEE of France, being the central statistical office, is also an important body of studies and forecasts in several fields: macro-economics (both short- and medium-term); social studies; studies of the productive system; regional studies. The evaluation of these activities is very positive. Close links have been established between the fields of statistical observation, of economic analysis and of forecasts. Both the internal dynamics of the statistical office and its relations with users of statistics have improved as a result of this situation. However, a statistical office has to maintain its scientific independence with regard to public authorities, as well as its image of objectivity with regard to public opinion. Towards these ends, research or study activities have to be confined to such areas which are directly linked to the preparation or evaluation of economic policy.

DOI: 10.3233/SJU-1984-2101

Journal: Statistical Journal of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, vol. 2, no. 1, pp. 1-8, 1984