Our sources

In addition to data we collect ourselves, we rely mainly on statistics and figures from the United Nations and its databases. By working with the UN, we are able to produce accurate analyses and forecasts, and take effective action to improve health, education and living conditions in different regions of the world. Here we explain our main sources.

National and regional statistical offices and own data

Some of our data has been compiled from online databases, reports and other materials from national statistical offices and regional organisations, and direct communication with demographers and country experts from around the world. In addition, we collect our own data and analysis in the context of our projects, which are included in our publications. Specific data sources can be found in our publications or are available on request.

UN, UNFPA, UNAIDS

Demographic data and surveys on family planning are taken from the following UN data sets:

  • „Demographic and Health Surveys“ (DHS)
  • „Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys“ (MICS)
  • „Performance Monitoring for Action Surveys“ (PMA)
  • „UN Demographic Yearbook“
  • „Population and Vital Statistics Report“
  • „World Population Prospects: The 2022 Revision“
  • „World Contraceptive Use 2021“
  • „World Urbanization Prospects: The 2018 Revision“
  • Online-Database „AIDSinfo“

Additional sources and databases

  • International database, U.S. Census Bureau
  • Online database „World Development Indicators“, Weltbank
  • Global Excess Deaths Associated With COVID-19“ (modelled estimates), World Health Organisation and Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center, Johns Hopkins University & Medicine
  • Online database „FAOSTAT“, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)