Follow the Annual UNDP Global Call for Data

As a co-custodian of SDG 16, UNDP’s Global Policy Centre for Governance (GPCG) launches an Annual Global Call for Data to collect national data on four SDG 16 indicators. The data collected is critical for evaluating progress on the SDGs and supporting stakeholders in strengthening governance systems. Below, you will find more information and discover ways to engage throughout this vital part of UNDP’s mission.  

Which Goal 16 indicators fall under UNDP’s custodianship?

• 16.3.3: Access to dispute resolution mechanisms
• 16.6.2: Satisfaction with public services
• 16.7.1 (b) and 16.7.1 (c): Representation and participation in decision-making in the public service and the judiciary
• 16.7.2: Responsive and inclusive  decision making 

How does the process work, and who are the National SDG Focal Points?

The GPCG, on behalf of UNDP, coordinates the global reporting for the four SDG 16 indicators under UNDP custodianship. This includes data collection, harmonization, quality assurance, and submission of data to the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD). Data are officially provided to GPCG by nationally designated SDG focal points, usually based in the National Statistical Office. The list of official SDG country focal points is collated and shared with all custodian agencies by UNSD. From November to January, Designated National SDG Focal Points are invited to submit data via the SDG 16 Data Reporting Platform.

What is the data reporting process for SDG 16 indicators which fall under UNDP’s custodianship? 

1. UNDP GPCG sends NSOs an official request to report on the four SDG 16 indicators mentioned above via the SDG 16 Data Reporting Platform. The NSOs are requested to: 
   1. Provide data on the indicators.
   2. Verify previously submitted data.
   3. For some countries, UNDP GPCG identified additional national data, and countries are requested to validate the data for official reporting of SDG indicators.
2. UNDP GPCG sends login credentials to NSOs so they can access the Platform. 
3. Countries submit data and metadata on the four SDG 16 indicators mentioned above through the Platform. 
4. UNDP GPCG reviews and validates the data submitted in consultation with countries and UNDP COs. 
5. UNDP GPCG sends the validated data to the UNSD. 
6. UNSD publishes the data on the Global SDG Indicators Database and informs the UN Secretary General’s annual SDG Progress Report. 
7. UNDP GPCG uses the data in the Global SDG Indicators Database for other reports, including the Global Progress Report on SDG 16.

When should the national statistical authority report on indicators 16.3.3, 16.6.2, 16.7.1b, 16.7.1c and 16.7.2? 

The reporting entity can submit the statistics and related methodology on the SDG 16 Data Reporting Platform no later than 31st January. 

In support of the ongoing data collection, throughout January, GPCG will organize regional clinics with the aim of showcasing how data contributes to SDG monitoring, global reporting, and analytical outputs that support policy-making and governance improvements. They aim to improve the quality of data collection and reporting for SDG Goal 16, while recognizing that countries are at different stages of data production. Each clinic will last 1 hour and 30 minutes, and it will be conducted in English, Arabic, French, Spanish, and Russian. The sessions will foster dialogue tailored to regional needs, provide a space for closer engagement with national stakeholders, address challenges, and improve data accuracy and comparability.

To access national data from previous data collection cycles, visit the Global SDG Indicators database. 

Further insights and analysis on SDG 16 indicators can be found in the 3rd Global Progress Report on SDG 16.

For additional information, contact [email protected] or reach out to Fatma Usheva ([email protected]) and Mariana Neves ([email protected]).