India has been elected to the highest statistical body of the United Nations for a four-year term beginning January 1 next year, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Wednesday.
Jaishankar said India’s expertise in the field of statistics, diversity and demography has earned it the seat on the UN Statistical Commission.
“India’s expertise in the field of statistics, diversity and demography has earned it a seat on the UN Statistical Commission. Congrats Team- Permanent Mission of India to the UN for coming through so strongly in a competitive election,” Jaishankar tweeted.
India won the UN Statistical Commission election by securing 46 out of 53 votes, leaving rivals ROK (23), China (19) and UAE (15) far behind, ANI reported. This was a multi-cornered election. Four candidates were vying for two seats.
Established in 1947, the United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC) is the highest body of the global statistical system, bringing together chief statisticians from member states from around the world.
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It is the highest decision making body for international statistical activities and is responsible for setting of statistical standards and the development of concepts and methods, including their implementation at the national and international level, as per the UNSC website.
The Statistical Commission oversees the work of the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD), and it is a Functional Commission of the UN Economic and Social Council.
The commission consists of 24 member countries of the United Nations. They are elected by the United Nations Economic and Social Council on the basis of an equitable geographical distribution. The term of office of members is four years.
Last week, Jaishankar said a few countries do not want India to be a member of the the United Nations Security Council. He said the doors will not be kept closed for India for too long, adding that the country will not spare any effort to get a seat at the UNSC.
“We are among the top economies in the world and we make a big difference. It is something that we will pursue,” Jaishankar further said.