1. Regional statistics seminar 2004

2. A regional statistics seminar - why?
Answer:
Match user needs and supplier scope

3. General considerations
Users’ needs and suppliers’ resource allocation both change over time
data needed for new policy areas may not be available
part of data supply may no longer be needed by users
Users may not know of new data sources
User and supplier viewpoints therefore need to be regularly compared
Otherwise, data gaps and/or wasted resources

4. Regional statistics issues
Within this relatively young field, we have:
Enlargements from 6 to 27 + countries
i.e. increasing regional variation
Impact of regional development policies
Many more “actors” involved (supranational, regional, cities, private sector)
Increasing pressure on resources for statistics collection

5. A regional statistics seminar - why now?
Answer:
Overdue and the time is ripe

6. 2004: a pivotal year
The last extensive review of regional statistics was in 1996 (some discussion also in 1998)
Needs and supply options are changing ever more rapidly
In 2004, the European Union will:
welcome 10 new member States with their own experience of regional statistics and different constraints
be well into the planning process for the next round of Structural Funds
Have a year’s experience of NUTS 2003

7. A regional statistics seminar - where and how?
Answer:
In the heart of Europe; in the minds of the participants

8. Strasbourg: October 7-9
In this city, deeply symbolic of the overcoming of national differences in Europe, there will be:
Four 3-hour sessions over two working days, with papers grouped around key topics
Contrast within each session of user needs and supplier constraints
Speakers, panel and participants as broadly based as possible (Commission, national, regional, cities, private sector)

9. A regional statistics seminar - can I help shape it ?
Answer:
Yes !! Your input is vital

10. Broad input = thorough analysis = real progress
Help us enrich the programme by:
Suggesting topics for session papers
Putting forward suitable names for speakers, panel members, rapporteur
Compiling a list of organisations and individuals in your country who should be informed about the seminar
canvassing views within your own organisation

11. Thanks for listening !
Any Questions ?