​Director of the National Bureau of Statistics, Statchel Edwards, this week participated in a high-level United Nations meeting focused on strengthening data systems to support development in Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Edwards represented Antigua and Barbuda at the meeting held in New York City on March 6. The discussions centered on advancing the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States, an international initiative aimed at promoting sustainable development and resilience among island nations.

The agenda outlines a range of initiatives designed to strengthen economies and promote economic, social and environmental progress across SIDS. However, officials say the success of the programme will depend heavily on countries’ ability to collect, analyze and report reliable data to measure progress.

For Caribbean nations in particular, national statistical systems are expected to play a crucial role through a Monitoring and Evaluation framework embedded within the ABAS. The framework requires countries to provide consistent indicators and reporting to assess whether policies and programmes are achieving their intended outcomes.

The meeting Edwards attended, titled “Advancing the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States through Robust Data Systems,” was organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs through its Division for Sustainable Development Goals in partnership with the Partnership in Statistics for Development in the 21st Century.

​It was held as a side event during the 57th Session of the United Nations Statistical Commission, the highest decision-making body for international statistical activities.

Discussions during the session focused on the need for stronger national statistical systems across SIDS to support monitoring, evaluation and reporting on development initiatives under the ABAS. Participants also examined opportunities for technical assistance, capacity building and partnerships aimed at improving statistical capacity in small island states.

While in New York, Edwards also met with senior members of Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, including the country’s Permanent Representative, Walton Webson.

During the meeting, Ambassador Webson updated Edwards on progress being made toward establishing a Centre of Excellence in Antigua and Barbuda,  a key outcome of the ABAS initiative. A central component of the proposed centre will be a Data Hub designed to provide reliable data to guide policymaking and support investments in resilient development.

With the Centre of Excellence expected to be headquartered in Antigua and Barbuda, both officials agreed that the National Bureau of Statistics and the wider national statistical system will play a vital role in ensuring the Data Hub effectively supports decision-making and tracks progress under the ABAS framework.

Also present at the meeting were First Secretaries to the Permanent Mission, Claxton Duberry and Asha Challenger.