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economic and social development planning, as well as assessing conditions in
human settlements. In order to have representative censuses, it is recommended that
census authorities in a number of countries be alert to the possibility of stereotypes
and biases affecting data on minority population groups. As representatives of those
minority groups can often provide census planners with important information and
insights relevant to both census content and operations, they should be consulted
when planning a census. It is worth noting that in the context of a population
census, in addition to identifying adequate indicators, census agents should be
trained so as to avoid biases that may impact the proper collection of accurate data.
63. Socioeconomic indicators are often used as proxy variables for measuring
equality and discrimination, to assess the extent to which the realization of various
human rights is taking into consideration the cross-cutting norms of equality and
non-discrimination. However, according to the OHCHR guide to the measurement
of human rights indicators, classic quantitative measurements may not be enough to
explain the difference in treatment or outcome between individuals belonging to
different ethnic groups. It is suggested, therefore, that in addition to collecting
quantitative data, qualitative analysis might be needed to arrive at a more definite
assessment of discrimination. That is also necessary insofar as victims are
sometimes unable to identify the discrimination to which they are subjected. Events based information-gathering and direct surveys should therefore also be used in
monitoring discrimination and assessing the prevalence of discriminatory practices.
Some useful statistical tools set out in the OHCHR guide include socioeconomic
statistics disaggregated by prohibited grounds of discrimination to capture
disparities and differential outcomes that are often the result of multiple and
accumulative discrimination; population surveys measuring experiences,
perceptions and attitudes regarding discrimination; and discrimination or situation testing surveys to measure directly discrimination in specific areas, such as access
to work, housing, health care or other public services.
64. The Special Rapporteur would also like to emphasize the inherent conflict of
interest that may arise between the data-gathering function, which is usually
undertaken by service providers, and the analysis function, which should be
undertaken by an independent entity in charge of analysing and interpreting the
information collected from a human rights perspective. For example, in Europe that
task could be entrusted to the equality bodies, which are independent organizations
assisting victims of discrimination, monitoring and reporting on discrimination
issues, and promoting equality.
65. Data collection and analysis are complementary activities and should involve
all stakeholders, including ministries and departments of public administration that
produce administrative data; the national statistical agencies which undertake
survey-based data; and national human rights institutions and civil society
organizations for the collection of events-based data. While interpretation should be
conducted by an impartial independent body, the Special Rapporteur encourages the
relevant institutions to take full ownership of assessment outcomes, in order to
implement the necessary corrective measures, including affirmative action plans.
66. Furthermore, due consideration should be given to principle 2 of the
Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics, which states that to retain trust in
official statistics, the statistical agencies need to decide according to strictly
professional considerations including scientific principles and professional ethics,
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