Abstract

This study highlights the recent progress made in improving data governance within the Central Bank of Malta’s Statistics Department. The goal is to strengthen how the institution manages its data and to bring its practices in line with European and international standards.

The work includes setting up a centralised data inventory, carrying out a structured assessment of the department’s data maturity and developing a forward‑looking data strategy and governance framework. A strong focus is placed on boosting data quality, accessibility, transparency and accountability, while also ensuring data is used ethically and securely.

Artificial intelligence has played an important role in documenting and describing data assets, making the overall process more consistent, efficient and visible across the organisation.

These efforts have given the department a clearer picture of its current data capabilities and the areas that still need attention. In turn, this supports better, more informed decision‑making and helps lay the groundwork for a sustainable, value‑driven approach to data governance.