Data

Data

13 August 2026

We are very quick to claim that there is no data to substantiate our assertions. Nothing could be further from the truth. We are losing sight of reality in an abundance of data. While there used to be constant criticism of the amount of data produced by the CBS, my criticism now is that we are producing an overwhelming amount of it.

In a short period of time, three reports have been published: the Enkuesta Social, the Labour Force Survey, and the Business Cycle Survey. Put simply, they paint much the same picture. Despite economic growth of 5% in 2025, more than half of the population is struggling. People are unable to get out of debt and can barely afford to feed and clothe themselves.

Unemployment may have fallen, but incomes remain insufficient. A large part of the population does not earn a regular salary from employment, which can make access to credit, for example, more difficult. And despite economic growth, confidence in the economy is declining, while the construction and hospitality sectors are also cooling down.

So, what now? Produce even more data? I believe we know enough by now. It is time to connect the data, come together, and formulate—and implement—a coherent set of policies.

Miguel Goede