Statistics Norway, also known as Statistisk Sentralbyrå or SSB, is the national statistical agency of Norway responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating official statistics on various aspects of Norwegian society. It is an independent agency reporting directly to the Ministry of Finance and carries out its activities in accordance with the Statistics Act and international statistical standards.
The primary role of Statistics Norway is to produce reliable, accurate, and comprehensive statistics that can be used by policymakers, researchers, businesses, and the public in making informed decisions. The agency collects data through surveys, administrative registers, and other sources to cover a wide range of topics including population, demographics, economy, social conditions, labor market, environment, and more.
With a history dating back to the mid-19th century, Statistics Norway has built a reputation for its strict quality standards, methodological expertise, and commitment to transparency. The agency ensures the anonymity and confidentiality of the data it collects, which is crucial for maintaining public trust.
Beyond producing statistics, Statistics Norway actively participates in international statistical cooperation and contributes to the development of global statistical standards. It provides assistance to other countries in strengthening their statistical capacities and collaborates with international organizations, such as Eurostat and the United Nations Statistical Division.
Overall, Statistics Norway serves as the authoritative source of official statistics in the country, playing a vital role in contributing to evidence-based decision making, monitoring societal trends, and supporting research and analysis on various aspects of Norwegian society.
