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140 Years of the International Statistical Institute: A Legacy of Global Impact

Olivia van Dijck-Timbol
Olivia van Dijck-Timbol • 7 August 2025
Ada van Krimpen
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By Ada van Krimpen – ISI Director 2009-2022 

In 1885, a visionary group of statisticians founded the International Statistical Institute (ISI)—a global platform for advancing statistical science and collaboration. Now, 140 years later, the ISI remains a beacon of statistical independence and innovation in a world increasingly shaped by data. It is a vibrant and committed community, powered by active members, dedicated officers, and our seven semi-autonomous associations that add even more energy through their own initiatives and events.

From 2009 to 2022, I had the privilege of serving as Director of the ISI. It was a time of rapid global transformation, during which the role of statistics became not only more visible, but more vital than ever. We worked to strengthen the ISI’s core pillars—such as the World Statistics Congresses—while broadening our global reach through initiatives focused on building statistical capacity in developing countries and supporting the use of statistics during times of crisis.

Throughout those years, I met an extraordinary number of people within the ISI and beyond—from every corner of the globe, from Africa to Asia, the Americas to Europe. I remain deeply impressed by the drive and dedication of so many, particularly those involved in organizing the World Statistics Congresses. Their boundless energy and commitment to excellence were truly inspiring. My role also led to rich exchanges with national statistical societies and numerous international and supranational organizations. Of course, there were challenges along the way—sometimes significant ones—but thanks to the dedication of the Executive Committees and ISI Permanent Office staff, we overcame them all. These experiences not only enriched my professional journey, but strengthened my belief in the power of international cooperation and open dialogue within our community.

A cornerstone of the ISI’s mission has always been its unwavering commitment to professional ethics. In an era of exponential data growth and algorithmic decision-making, ethical standards are not optional—they are essential. The ISI’s Declaration on Professional Ethics continues to serve as a global reference point, emphasizing that impartiality, integrity, and respect for privacy must guide everything we do.

Today, as statistics increasingly come under (political) pressure, the ISI’s role as a guardian of independence has never been more important. Facts must not be shaped by power; statistical integrity is a public good. The ISI is uniquely positioned to uphold professional standards, advocate for independence, and support statisticians worldwide in their pursuit of transparency and objectivity.

I have seen firsthand how colleagues navigate these pressures—sometimes subtle, sometimes systemic. These experiences have only deepened my conviction that protecting the independence of statistics is not only a professional duty, but a moral one. The ISI’s voice in this domain is vital, and I trust it will continue to speak out with clarity and courage.

This anniversary is both a moment of reflection and of renewed purpose. Our field faces new frontiers: the ethics of artificial intelligence, transparency in algorithmic systems, and the pressing need to foster data literacy across society. I am confident the ISI will meet these challenges with the same vision, independence, and spirit of collaboration that have shaped its work for 140 years.

I am deeply grateful to have been part of this remarkable journey—and proud to remain a member of a community that values excellence, integrity, and international cooperation.

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