SDSN Association

The Sustainable Development Solutions Thematic Research Network on Data and Statistics (SDSN TReNDS) is a global research network that facilitates better evidence-informed decision making by producing actionable research on data innovations, supporting local capacity building in Global South institutions, and documenting both processes (to encourage replicability) and progress (by being honest about successes and failures) so policymakers and practitioners, particularly those based in the Global South, can capitalize on new data technologies and approaches to address sustainable development challenges. TReNDS’ efforts to improve data and evidence support its long-term objective of contributing to better government performance through effective policy implementation, better management of resources, strengthened service delivery, and improved citizen engagement that increases trust and accountability in government and contributes to democratic values. For the duration of the grant period — Hewlett's fifth round of support to TReNDS — the network will scale its country-based programming, innovations, and local capacity building; expand TReNDS’ connection and influence with a broader spectrum of data research communities in the Global South; and emphasize “data use for decision making” as a key work program activity. It will also play an important role in reviewing the assumptions and ways forward on the Sustainable Development Goals data framework as the U.N. prepares for its midcourse review of the goals in 2023. (Strategy: Evidence-Informed Policymaking)

The U.N. Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) mobilizes global scientific and technological expertise to promote practical solutions for implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement. The SDSN Thematic Research Network on Data and Statistics (TReNDS) brings together members from academia, science, public policy, and companies to produce research and offer technical support for countries to increase their use of data for decision making, including nontraditional sources of data. During this grant period, TReNDS will produce research on various aspects of using data to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, support policymakers and practitioners to capitalize on new data technologies and approaches, and build capacity within academic institutions to support these processes.

The SDSN Thematic Research Network on Data and Statistics for sustainable development brings together members from academia, science, public policy, and companies to produce research and offer technical support to countries. As developing country governments work to increase their use of data for decision making, including nontraditional sources of data, the network aims to provide independent analysis of the opportunities and challenges associated with government application of data innovations and methodological advances. During this grant period, the network will draw on the diverse data expertise of its membership to conduct collaborative research, share learning from data innovation initiatives with governments, strengthen partnerships that allow it to engage more deeply with developing country governments and scholars, and significantly enhance its strategic communications capacity.