Abstract

In an increasingly complex information ecosystem — marked by rapid digital transformation, algorithm-driven communication, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence — statistical literacy has become a cornerstone of informed citizenship and democratic resilience. National Statistical Offices (NSOs) have a responsibility not only to produce high-quality data, but also to ensure that statistics are accessible, understandable, and meaningfully used by society.
This paper presents the experience of Statistics Portugal in promoting statistical literacy through a strategic, collaborative, and multi-channel approach. Anchored in its Dissemination Policy and guided by a continuous improvement framework, statistical literacy is embedded across the institution’s activities — from the official statistics portal and media relations to user support services and structured partnerships with the education sector.
A central pillar of this approach is cooperation with educational institutions. Through initiatives such as the European Statistics Competition (ESC) and the ISLP Poster Competition, Statistics Portugal engages thousands of students nationwide, fostering curiosity, teamwork, and critical thinking through the use of real-world official data. These initiatives are implemented in collaboration with schools, universities, and international networks such as ISLP, demonstrating how global projects can be effectively adapted to national contexts. The ALEA (Applied Local Statistics Action) platform further supports teachers and students by providing interactive resources, thematic challenges, and pedagogical materials aligned with curricular objectives.
Statistical literacy is also reinforced through direct engagement mechanisms, including study visits, training sessions within the Higher Education Information Network (RIIES), and responsive user support services. At the same time, media relations, infographics, social media presence, and innovative visual communication formats amplify statistical messages and promote wider public understanding.
Beyond these practices, the paper introduces a conceptual reflection on the ethical and human rights dimensions of statistical literacy. It argues that statistical literacy should be understood not only as a technical competence, but also as a civic skill linked to fundamental rights such as access to information, transparency, and non-discrimination. In this context, official statistics play a crucial role in ensuring equitable access to trustworthy data and in upholding principles such as independence, impartiality, and data protection.
The Portuguese experience illustrates that statistical literacy is most effectively strengthened through cooperation — between NSOs, educational institutions, international networks, and the media ecosystem — combined with a strong commitment to ethical governance. Looking ahead, the integration of artificial intelligence into communication and learning environments presents both opportunities and challenges. Strengthening critical statistical thinking and AI awareness will be essential to enable citizens to navigate increasingly data-rich societies responsibly.
Ultimately, this case study demonstrates that statistical literacy is not a standalone initiative, but a strategic, collaborative, and future-oriented commitment — where communication, cooperation, and ethics converge to support more informed societies and stronger democratic systems.