Information is becoming more and more important in their increasingly complex world – for orientation, decision-making processes and future planning. Information influences the quality of action. Statistical information plays a key role in decisions – whether in politics (in parliaments, executive committees or referendums), in the economy or in everyday life. Statistics help ensure transparency in social and political discussions.

The FSO is Switzerland's national competence centre for official statistics. It produces and publishes statistical information on the status and development of the population, economy, society, education, research, territory and the environment. This information is used for opinion building among the population and for the planning and management of key policy areas. They make an important contribution to a modern, democratic state.

Their vision

They deliver statistical information to sustain the democratic process.

The information they provide helps shape public opinion, facilitates policymaking and enables assessment of government action. Their work is centred on issues of importance to policymakers. By detecting developments early on, they are able to anticipate relevant future trends.

Their mandate

They are a national centre for public statistics.

They run and co-ordinate Switzerland's entire public statistics system. They produce and disseminate key statistical information showing the current status and trends in the fields of demographics, economy, society, spatial planning and environment. They also carry out comprehensive analysis, devise indicator systems to monitor complex processes, produce scenario forecasts and maintain a historical database.