UN and Google Launch Open-Source Platform for Global Statistics

The United Nations and Google have launched the UN System Data Commons, an open-source platform to consolidate global statistics from across the UN system.

The initiative aims to replace the outdated UNData platform and make verified statistical information more accessible. One of the main reasons behind this effort is the growing difficulty in obtaining reliable statistics from artificial intelligence systems.

A recent study by UNICEF found that AI models have an average accuracy rate of only 21.2% when answering statistical questions. The new platform allows users to search for information using natural language and receive interactive charts and visualizations.

The datasets are reviewed by technical experts and UN statisticians, providing an additional layer of quality control. Google has provided a $2 million grant, along with technical assistance and infrastructure support, to help launch the platform.