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Addressing The Discrepancies Between National And International Data: A Strategy To Improve The Statistical Credibility Of The Hdr

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Addressing the discrepancies between national and international data:
A strategy to improve the statistical credibility of the HDR
[DRAFT]

Human Development Report Office
November 2003

Summary

This paper addresses the issue of data discrepancies between national and
international series and its implications for statistical credibility of the HDR. It
considers key factors relating to both the data production and dissemination
processes, and the HDRO’s unique role/position in each. It argues that, building
upon the political incentives of governments, the increasing demand for better
data for policy making, and the role of UNDP Country Offices, the HDRO can
contribute to the reduction of data discrepancies and improve its own statistical
credibility. To achieve these objectives, the HDRO should focus on (1)
developing systematic procedures to facilitate the coordination between national
and international data agencies, and (2) enhancing the understanding of users of
the Report through an educational campaign. The paper outlines a number of
specific proposals for further discussion.

Data discrepancy, HDR credibility, and the need for a new strategy

Indicator tables in the Human Development Report (HDR), led by the human development index
(HDI), are widely regarded as a useful source of human development statistics. They are
systematic, comprehensive and easily accessible for public policy discussions and academic
research. To facilitate cross-country comparisons, these indicators are drawn from the leading
international data series – the best that are available when the Report is produced each year.

Discrepancies between national and international estimates for some of the indicators constantly
pose questions, however, on the accuracy and reliability of data presented in the HDR, and cast
doubt on the Report’s overall statistical credibility. Such discrepancies are often brought...