'The United Nations’ Global Statistical Geospatial Framework - Olive Powell

In August 2025, a major milestone was reached at the United Nations Headquarters in New York: the second edition of the Global Statistical and Geospatial Framework (GSGF) was officially endorsed by the UN Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM).

This framework is a cornerstone in the global effort to integrate statistical and geospatial data—helping countries turn location-linked data into actionable insights for better policy-making.

Developed through years of collaboration among experts from across the globe, the GSGF empowers national statistical offices to systematically geospatially reference data so they can bring together vast sources of information.

This means governments can more effectively plan public services, respond to social, economic and environment challenges, and design policies that reflect the realities and specificities on the ground and in various locations.

Co-chaired by the UK and Brazil, the expert group behind the GSGF has crafted a framework built on five guiding principles. These principles help countries structure their data in ways that are not only analytically robust but also ready for advanced technologies like artificial intelligence.

Whether you're a geographer, data scientist, or policy advisor, the GSGF offers a powerful lens through which to understand and shape the world—by connecting people, places, and data.

About the speaker

Olive Powell is the Head of Geography & Geospatial at the UK Office for National Statistics where she leads the unit which provides the geospatial infrastructure, datasets and spatial analytical services needed to deliver national statistics for public good.

Representing the UK, she co-chairs the United Nations’ expert group for the Integration of Statistics and Geospatial Information (EG-ISGI). Chartered Geographer, Olive has a master’s degree from La Sorbonne University in Paris and more than 20 years’ experience in the geospatial industry specifically in environment, law enforcement, and central government.

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