Page 240 - Invited Paper Session (IPS) - Volume 2

IPS224 Jorge T. et al.

Functional dependence of a National Statistical
Office within its respective executive branch.
Advantages and disadvantages
2
1
Jorge Todesca , Hernán Muñoz
National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INDEC), Argentina

Abstract
The independence of NSOs (National Statistics Offices) can be approached
from different angles. There seems to be a broad consensus on statistical
methods and processes.
However, a question which is not minor is what kind of articulation between
NSOs and their corresponding governments does not lead to isolation and a
lack of interest that could eventually affect resources.
In this sense, the main challenge is to establish how a statistical system can
strengthen the bonds with the rest of the State in a context of dialogue
between peers that will not affect its independence.
In Argentina, INDEC, created by 1968 Law 17622, works as a deconcentrated
body within the scope of the Ministry of Treasury, but it was initially within
what was then the Planning Secretariat of the Presidency of the Republic.
The diversity of statistical production and the interrelation with different areas
of government and sectors of society invite us to reflect on the most adequate
modes of articulation for the future development of National Statistical
Systems.

1. General considerations
The recent experience of the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses
(INDEC) of Argentina has led to deliberation from various perspectives as
regards its relationship with the Executive Branch.
Firstly, given the political intervention that took place between 2007 and
2015, it has been a priority in the transformation agenda to establish a
legislation that ensures the Institute's complete autonomy and allows
updating the available tools for the performance of its functions. Although de
Executive Branch has not yet presented a new legislative proposal to Congress,
there has been a lot of debate within the Government and there is already a
draft law that moves towards autonomy. In terms of governance, it proposes
the establishment of an executive management with defined stability and an
advisory council composed by government and academic representatives.

1 Director-General of the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INDEC),
jtodesca@indec.gob.ar
2 National Director of Planning, Institutional and International Relations of INDEC,
hmunoz@indec.gob.ar
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