Statistics Netherlands (Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek in Dutch) enables people to have debates on social issues on the basis of reliable statistical information.

It is responsible for collecting and processing data in order to publish statistics to be used in practice, by policymakers and for scientific research. In addition to its responsibility for (official) national statistics, Statistics Netherlands also has the task of producing European (community) statistics.

CBS was founded on 9 January 1899.

By the end of the 19th century, there was a growing demand for statistical information. The Dutch government felt the need to exert more control over society. The large-scale industrialisation process had given rise to social malpractices. Statistical data had to provide a solid basis for future policy initiatives to reduce social inequality. Various ministries kept statistics, but these were often incoherent, incomplete and inaccurate. Therefore, the government decided to establish Statistics Netherlands (CBS) with collecting, processing and publishing of reliable statistical data as its main priorities.

Ever since 1899, CBS has gradually transformed into a modern, innovative organisation which actively responds to the needs of Dutch society. CBS shares its information with other levels of government, politics, universities, media and the private sector.

Mission

The mission of CBS is to publish reliable and coherent statistical information which responds to the needs of Dutch society. The responsibility of CBS is twofold: firstly, to compile (official) national statistics and secondly to compile European (community) statistics.

Scope of activities

The information published by CBS deals with subjects directly affecting the lives of Dutch citizens. These include economic growth, consumer prices, crime but also leisure.

Autonomous administrative body

As of 3 January 2004, CBS has the status of an autonomous administrative body (in Dutch: ZBO). This means that CBS performs public service tasks, but operates independently and not under the direct authority of a Dutch ministry. The Minister of Economic Affairs is politically responsible for relevant legislation, budget and conditions. CBS is financed from the state budget.

SERVICES

Customised services

• - Customised research
• - Own research
• - Advice about research

Methodology

• - Definitions
• - Classifications
• - Surveys
• - Papers
• - Statistical methods

Print Publications

Open Data

• - Website open data
• - StatLine open data

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