The European Statistics Code of Practice is the cornerstone of the common quality framework of the European Statistical System. It is based on 16 Principles covering the institutional environment, statistical processes and statistical outputs:
Institutional environment
- Professional Independence
- Coordination and cooperation
- Mandate for Data Collection and Access to Data
- Adequacy of Resources
- Commitment to Quality
- Statistical Confidentiality and Data Protection
- Impartiality and Objectivity
Statistical Processes
- Sound Methodology
- Appropriate Statistical Procedures
- Non-excessive Burden on Respondents
- Cost Effectiveness
Statistical Output
- Relevance
- Accuracy and Reliability
- Timeliness and Punctuality
- Coherence and Comparability
- Accessibility and Clarity
A set of indicators of best practices and standards for each of the Principles provides guidance and reference for reviewing the implementation of the Code of Practice, increasing transparency within the European Statistical System.
Statistical authorities, comprising the European Union Statistical Authority (Eurostat), the National Statistical Institutes and other national authorities responsible for the development, production and dissemination of European Statistics, commit themselves to adhere to the Code of Practice
This 2017 edition of the Code of Practice aims at reflecting the latest changes and innovations in the development, production and dissemination of official statistics in the European Statistical System and beyond, such as emerging new data sources, use of new technologies, modernisation of the legal framework, and the results of the peer reviews on the implementation of the Code of Practice.