Statistics Institute chairman: Our data are not used to their full potential

The chairman of Romania’s Statistics Institute, professor Virgil Voineagu, says officials do not use statistical data to the fullest and fail to adjust their public policies to suit the economic and social realities reflected by the data.

“The volume of data of the National Statistics Institute is a treasure, but it is not used at its full potential, although we cater to all demands coming from the Government, the Presidential Administration, businesspeople, and researchers,” says Virgil Voineagu, 58, chairman of the National Statistics Institute (INS) since 2005 and professor at the Academy of Economic Studies (ASE).

No political or economic decision can be substantiated in the absence of statistics. “Crises cannot be monitored, nothing can be done without statistics. Some say, metaphorically speaking, that after eye sight, hearing, and smell, come statistics.”

Although the huge amount of data remains underused, progress has been made, especially for indicators relevant at this time, such as personnel numbers, new employees, unemployed, and wages.