Between 2010 and 2020, many Pacific Islands and Territories have updated their traditional data collection processes, embracing new technologies. The island nations Kiribati and Vanuatu, among others, successfully switched to computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI), a new data management system and a survey monitoring dashboard. The innovations implemented with support from the Pacific Community helped to weather the impact of the pandemic on census activities and to become fit for the purpose of tracking the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Geospatial information helps us to understand what is happening where and why. Geospatial data provides the digital connection between location, people, activities, and is an important evidence base for decision-making.

The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) presents examples in Asia and the Pacific of the diverse use for geospatial information and applications and the vital role they will continue to play in the future.