Dr. Orville M. Disdier, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Institute of Statistics (PRIS), offered a presentation at a recent meeting of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC).
The Executive Director offered a presentation as part of a virtual expert group meeting on statistics for sustainable development ECLAC associate member countries. Dr. Disdier highlighted Puerto Rico's significant economic challenges, such as outmigration and high energy costs. He emphasized the importance of including Puerto Rico in a wide range of statistical products to effectively address these challenges and formulate informed public policies. PRIS, as an independent public agency, plays a critical role in ensuring access to comprehensive and reliable statistics.
Dr. Disdier underscored the gaps in federal statistical products, noting that Puerto Rico is included in only 81 of 449 federal statistical products.
PRIS has been instrumental in addressing various statistical issues, such as correcting mortality statistics and eliminating biases in economic indicators. The presentation highlighted the crucial role of international statistical reports in promoting informed decision-making and public accountability, and gaining economic insights.
Dr. Disdier proposed steps to enhance Puerto Rico's inclusion in international reports, emphasizing the need for a detailed list of existing reports, prioritizing reports by importance, and establishing contact with experts to ensure technical assistance.