Statistics Canada

Statistics Canada, Canada's national statistical agency

Statistics Canada is Canada's central statistical agency. Its role is to produce statistical data and insights that help Canadians better understand their country's population, resources, economy, society and culture. The agency presents itself as a public service focused on generating high-quality statistical information that is relevant to Canadians.

Surveys and censuses

In addition to conducting the Census of Population and the Census of Agriculture every five years, the agency maintains more than 450 active surveys on virtually all aspects of life in Canada. Its areas of work include economic, social and census topics, as well as statistical programs and surveys for participants.

Legal framework and institutional cooperation

The agency operates under the Statistics Act and works closely with provincial and territorial partners to sustain a strong national statistical system. Statistics Canada is a member of the United Nations Statistical Commission and endorses the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics. It also states its commitment to protecting the confidentiality of all information entrusted to it and to delivering timely and relevant data.

Structure and governance

The organization has a defined organizational structure and publishes performance reports, proactive disclosures and briefing notes. It has a Trust Centre dedicated to protecting the confidentiality of the data it collects, analyzes and shares, and participates in advisory groups focused on innovation and the modernization of data and processes.

Programs and resources for users

The agency offers customized products and services for clients in Canada and around the world. Its resources include access to microdata, a library of publications—including historical material dating back to 1851—and access to data in a variety of formats for developers. It also manages record linkage environments such as the Business Linkable File Environment, the Social Data Linkage Environment and the Linkable Open Data Environment, aimed at social and economic statistical research and the harmonization of open microdata.

Relationship with Indigenous communities and international cooperation

Statistics Canada has an Indigenous Liaison Program that acts as a bridge between the agency and First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities, as well as Indigenous organizations. The agency also carries out an international mandate with cooperation programs and projects.

History

The evolution of Canada's national statistical agency is documented from 1918 to the present day.