Riyadh: The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), in collaboration with the UN Statistics Division, PARIS21, and Open Data Watch, organized a virtual panel discussion on “Commit to Data,” with the participation of a group of international leaders and experts in statistics, data, and development.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the panel discussion was part of the Road to Riyadh events, a preparatory pathway for the sixth UN World Data Forum (UNWDF) 2026, which will be hosted in Saudi Arabia in November 2026. It aims to foster international partnerships, develop comprehensive and reliable data ecosystems, and translate commitments into sustainable development impact.
In his opening remarks, President of GASTAT Fahad Aldossari emphasized that committing to data is a key pillar for strengthening statistical governance, integrating statistical data, and supporting decision-making. He noted that hosting this panel discussion reflects GASTAT’s commitment to fostering multilateral collaboration in the data field and enhancing the role of statistics in addressing development challenges.
The panel discussion brought together Acting Director of the UN Statistics Division Shantanu Mukherjee, Executive Head of PARIS21 Johannes Jtting, Managing Director of Open Data Watch Shaida Badiee, Senior Program Manager of the Equality Insights Program at the International Women’s Development Agency Amelia Greaves, Senior Administrative Officer at the Ghana Statistical Service Cyrus Darpoh, Director of the African Centre for Statistics at the UN Samuel Annim, Director General of the Statistical, Economic and Social Research and Training Centre for Islamic Countries (SESRIC) Zehra Sel§uk, Director General of International Partnerships at GASTAT Haitham Alghulaiga, and from the UN Statistics Division Ian Rutherford.
Similarly, GASTAT showcased the strategic framework for Road to Riyadh events, highlighting the forums, seminars, workshops, and both in-person and virtual panel discussions held over the past period and planned for the coming months. These efforts aim to highlight Saudi Arabia’s readiness to host the forum and demonstrate how its statistical work keeps pace with rapidly evolving global developments.