Producing gender statistics

 

The production of gender statistics requires that concepts and methods used in data collection be adequately formulated to reflect existing gender concerns and differentials and take into consideration social and cultural factors that can produce gender-based biases in data collection, analysis, and presentation. The process of production of gender statistics implies some indispensable steps:

• Selection of topics that need to be investigated
• Identification of the data needed to understand gender differentials and women and men's roles and contributions in the different spheres of life
• Evaluation of existing concepts, definitions, and methods used in data collection against existing realities of women and men
• Development of new concepts, definitions, and methods to produce unbiased gender statistics
• Compilation, analysis, and presentation of statistics in formats easily accessible to a wide array of users
• Development of dissemination plans for statistical products to reach a wide audience

As an example of a best practice, a step-by-step description of the production process of gender statistics (developed by Statistics Sweden) will guide you through the various phases of producing gender statistics.

All steps should be undertaken by data producers in continuous collaboration with relevant groups of users. A common approach in the development of gender statistics should involve efforts to promote dialogue between statisticians and users of statistics - policy makers and planners, NGOs, research institutions and gender issues advocates. Training workshops and seminars should be held at all levels to promote a correct use of statistics and to increase producers' understanding of the society's need for statistics.