Istat endorses the reference framework of the European Statistical System, adopting its guidelines, definitions, recommendations and standards.
European statistics code of practice
The European Statistics Code of Practice is a self-regulatory instrument and is based on 16 principles covering the institutional environment, statistical processes and outputs. A set of indicators of best practices and standards for each of the principles provides guidance and reference for reviewing the implementation of the Code of Practice.
ESS Quality Assurance Framework
The European Statistics Code of Practice is accompanied by the ESS Quality Assurance Framework, suggesting methods and tools to adhere to the principles of the Code.
Peer Reviews
Peer Reviews are carried out about every 5 years to assess the compliance of Istat and the other National Authorities producing European statistics with the principles of the European Statistics Code of Practice.
Italian Code of Official Statistics
In 2021 a new version of the Italian Code of Official Statistics was approved by the Committee for Directing and Coordinating Statistical Information (COMSTAT). The Code is based on the principles of the European Statistics Code of Practice, and it is aligned with its latest version. It represents an essential benchmark for the governance of the National Statistical System and testifies to the strong commitment to ensuring the quality of official statistics. addressed to Italian Statistical System Bodies that do not produce European Statistics (not-ONAs). A previous version of the Code had already been approved in 2010.