DCDF highlights strategies for data provision in conflict zones

The ‘Strategies for Data Provision in Conflict and Humanitarian Crises in the Arab World’ panel featured Dr Ismail Lubad, Statistics and Demography Expert, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA); Dr Ali Mohamed Abbas, Director General of the Central Bureau of Statistics, Sudan; and Dr Magued Osman, Former Minister of Communications and Information Technology and CEO and Managing Director of Baseera- Egyptian Center for Public Opinion Research. It was moderated by Dr Ahmed Hussain, Senior Statistics Advisor at the Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics, Qatar.

Dr Lubad opened the session by sharing: “Statistics play a critical role in processing and analysing data, helping decision-makers craft policies that address these challenges while steering local and societal development. As part of the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, accurate and reliable statistical data is essential for achieving the desired development goals.”

However, he added, in the Arab world, conflict and humanitarian crises have placed immense pressure on countries to navigate complex socio-economic challenges. Some Arab countries currently grappling with internal crises and conflicts have seen their statistical systems become severely compromised. 

Data remains the lifeblood of policy-making, experts agree 
Dr Abbas explained that in the absence of stable central authorities, data collection and processing can fall on independent data centres. These efforts, while critical, are often hampered by internal instability and lack of infrastructure. According to him, one of the most significant hurdles in data provision is the unification of statistical language. Conflicts create silos that prevent a standardised approach to data collection. Additionally, financial challenges and the departure of skilled statisticians from conflict zones increase these issues.

He said: “Ongoing conflicts make consistent and comprehensive data collection nearly impossible in many areas. Despite this, data remains the lifeblood of policy-making, underscoring the importance of continuing these efforts even in the most adverse conditions.”

Dr Abbas gave the example of Gaza, where the destruction of infrastructure has made it difficult for statistical entities to collect data. He also gave the example of Syria, where certain areas remain inaccessible, so the ability to collect comprehensive data is limited.

“Without population censuses or other critical data sources, these countries are unable to assess their populations accurately. This lack of data hampers social and economic planning. Reliable data on women, children, and vulnerable groups is often lost in the chaos, complicating efforts to offer them protection and support,” he said.

Technological solutions to address data provision in conflict zones
Dr Osman gave an insight into the role of technology in crisis management. He said: “Technological solutions have begun to offer new ways of addressing data provision in conflict zones. Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and satellite data provide alternative methods for gathering critical information, especially in areas where on-the-ground data collection is impossible. Furthermore, cloud-based data systems ensure that data is backed up and accessible even when physical infrastructure is destroyed.”

He added that international collaboration is vital in ensuring continuous data provision during crises. Stable countries can support conflict-affected countries by sharing technology, expertise, and infrastructure. In post-conflict scenarios, international organisations play a crucial role in providing indexed data when local data is unavailable. This is essential for long-term recovery and sustainable development.

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD) is hosting the inaugural forum. Taking place on October 9-10 at the Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre, this event marks a first for the region. The forum is being organised in collaboration with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), the GCC Statistical Centre, and various federal, regional, and international entities.