The Marshall Islands’ first fully digital census shows a declining population but increasing incomes over the past decade, while highlighting differences in wealth, food insecurity, readiness for climate change and the impact of natural disasters.

Pacific trade and public health were in focus for statistics, customs and health officials from across the region late last year, part of broader joint efforts to develop trade data for better policy.

Improving the inclusion of people with disabilities in official data and decision-making is at the heart of a partnership of Pacific organisations, with a multi-year project funded by Australia launched this International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Computer tablets and cloud software are making Pacific statistics more accurate, advanced and cost-effective, with Pacific Community (SPC) support and World Bank software.