The ESS Innovation Agenda Network (EIN) -home page

The European Statistical System (ESS) Innovation Network (EIN) is a Commission expert group that brings together statistical experts and innovation leaders from the National Statistical Institutes of the European Union, the EFTA, and the enlargement countries. Established in February 2023 by the Commission, the EIN’s primary objective is to structure and sustain innovation streams in the ESS and the implementation of the ESS Innovation Agenda. This initiative aims to ensure that the production of European statistics is equipped for the future and that the ESS is well-positioned to tackle forthcoming challenges. The EIN convenes at least once per year, and detailed information can be accessed CIRCABC here.

Overarching objectives

• The network is dedicated to driving innovation in official statistics by enabling the exchange of knowledge and best practices among statistical experts and innovation champions from the National Statistical Institutes of the European Union, the EFTA, and the enlargement countries.
• Through the EIN, members can share insights, and collaborate on innovative lighthouse projects that align with the official statistics goals of the ESS, thus fostering innovation in the field of official statistics by promoting the development and implementation of new methodologies and approaches.
• The EIN coordinates the implementation of the Innovation Action Plan that comprises lighthouse projects, cross-cutting activities that may impact various statistical domains, and enablers of innovation.

The network also aims to engage with a broader community of relevant stakeholders at both the European and international levels to promote the adoption and dissemination of innovative practices in official statistics.

Supporting specific actions

The EIN is focused on strengthening collaboration between the National Statistical Institutes (NSIs) and academia and research institutes. This strategic focus is complemented by a steadfast commitment to upskilling staff and advancing ongoing capacity building efforts, ensuring that official statistics remain agile and responsive to changing demands within the European Statistical System. Horizon scanning is as well part of the EIN's portfolio of activities. Furthermore, communication initiatives are being deployed to cultivate an innovation culture and foster forward-thinking behaviours within the NSIs.

Find out about the ESS innovation activities.

Participating countries

Related websites

• Register of Commission Expert Groups and Other Similar Entities – ESS Innovation Network (E03900)
• Document repository for the EIN on CIRCABC