APA Announcement on the Global Data Deprivation

The Asian Population Association (APA), in support of concerns raised by the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population (IUSSP) and the Population Association of America (PAA), expresses its deep concern regarding the increasing deprivation of population and health data. The recent blocking of access to Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS), along with the potential abandonment of these surveys in the future, will severely limit the information base necessary for research, policy-making, and programs. Through DHS data, countries have made significant progress in addressing public health challenges, monitoring progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and shaping evidence-based policies to improve the lives of their populations.

The abandonment of population and health data collection is increasingly evident in many Asian countries, threatening the ability to assess emerging health risks, address inequalities, and respond effectively to the evolving needs of their populations. The APA calls on governments and international donors to prioritize the continuation of vital population and health statistics, recognizing their indispensable role in sustainable development and public health.

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Sincerely yours,
Asian Population Association
Website: https://asianpa.org/