PHNOM PENH: (Bernama) Laos is urging global communities to bridge the deepening data divide that is confronting developing nations that otherwise could derail their economic progress.
Like the digital divide, the data divide is becoming a pressing issue in developing economies that needs quality and timely statistical systems to counter socio-economic woes.
Lao Planning and Investment Minister Phet Phomphiphak (pic) said the country has made substantial progress in developing its economy in Asean but needs statistical systems in planning, monitoring and realising strategic objectives, reported Vientiane Times.
"The statistical system is not just a tool but a cornerstone of our planning and development. Laos has made significant progress as a dynamic and growing economy in the Asean region.
"However, we also face challenges. Poverty reduction under the Sustainable Development Goals remains a challenge, despite poverty levels declining from 23 per cent in 2015 to 17 per cent in 2023,” the minister said, according to the newspaper.
Phet commented on the subject when addressing the 14th Session of the Asean Community Statistical System Committee in Vientiane earlier in the week.
The world is witnessing a phenomenal explosion in big data generation as the digital revolution continues to sweep across economies.
Governments use advanced statistical systems to collate data to monitor socioeconomic developments from population growth, healthcare, per capita income, inflation and national poverty level to gauge the progress in the education field.
However, the absence of proper data collection and sharing could hamper policymakers from shaping and implementing effective national development strategies.
According to the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data, there is an average return of US$32 for every US$1 invested in strengthening data systems in low- and middle-income countries.
Lack of infrastructure like access to fast internet services, cloud computing and a talented workforce in the digital space in developing countries, like Laos, could only push back its progress compared to its Asean neighbours.
"We also face currency stability, labour and skill gap limitations. Compared to other Asean-member states, we face a critical challenge in catching up on economic and social development, including enhancing the capacity of the national statistical system to respond to governmental and international requirements with better statistics and timeliness," said Phet.
The key to the solution is to narrow the digital divide that will help close the data divide, experts say.
The World Bank has launched Prosperity Data360, an open data platform, which offers data access, resources and tools to promote inclusive and sustainable growth. - Bernama