The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission successfully concluded the 5th Meeting of the Regional Data Governance Council (RDGC), held from October 7-10, 2025. Over the course of four days, Directors of Statistics from OECS Member States, regional institutions, and international development partners came together to strengthen collaboration, enhance statistical capacity, and reinforce data-driven decision-making across the region

Mr. Corneil Williams, Chairperson of the RDGC, welcomed delegates and highlighted the importance of harmonized approaches to data collection and governance. The meeting opened with remarks from key leaders and partners, each of whom underscored the significance of data governance to advancing sustainable development in the OECS.

Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS Commission, reiterated the Commission’s commitment to strengthening statistical systems as a foundation for evidence-based policymaking.

Mr. Elbert Ellis, representing the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), reaffirmed the Bank’s partnership in advancing regional initiatives, including the Enhanced Country Poverty Assessment (eCPA).

Ms. Anna Luisa Paffhausen of the World Bank underscored the Bank’s collaboration with the OECS through the Data for Decision Making (DDM) Project. 

Ms. Sherma Beroo, OECS Data for Decision Making (DDM) Project Manager, highlighted the importance of the key items on the agenda for the 5th meeting of the council. ​ 

 Key Discussions and Outcomes

During the meeting, participants:

• Reviewed progress on regional and national statistical initiatives.
• Shared updates on flagship projects such as the DDM, CARDTP, and eCPA.
• Discussed strategies for data anonymization and harmonized Labour Force Surveys.
• Examined the OECS Five-Year Strategic Plan for data development.
• Developed a comprehensive Communication and Advocacy Strategy to support greater use of statistical data across the region

The meeting concluded with agreement on a coordinated work program, commitments to strengthen data harmonization and privacy protection, and reinforced partnerships between OECS Member States and development partners.

On the final day, the RDGC Executive convened a closed session to confirm strategic priorities and chart next steps for the coming year.