ESCWA Publication: E/ESCWA/CL4.SIT/2026/TP.1
Country: Arab region
Publication Type: Information material
Cluster: Statistics, Information Society and Technology
Focus Area: Statistics, Technology & innovation
Initiatives: Statistics Governance , Digital Development
SDGs: Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Keywords: Arab countries, Case studies, Civil registration, Databases, Digital technology, Information networks, Information systems, Morocco, Recommendations, Refugee registration, State of palestine, United arab emirates, Vital statistics
Digitizing civil registration and vital statistics in the Arab region
January 2026
This paper provides an overview of progress in the digitization of civil registration and vital statistics (CRVS) systems in the Arab region and their role in generating reliable data for development planning and monitoring progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It reviews key aspects of CRVS digitization, including the electronic transformation of civil registers, data exchange and interoperability, legal identity, and the institutional frameworks supporting CRVS systems.
Drawing on a regional survey conducted by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), complemented by a desk review, the paper identifies persistent challenges related to interoperability, cybersecurity, infrastructure and institutional capacity, alongside growing national commitment to CRVS digitization. It also underscores the need for strengthened regional coordination and sustained support, and highlights the role of ESCWA in promoting inclusive, resilient and interoperable CRVS systems across the Arab region.
Related content
Statistics, Technology & innovation
This paper provides an overview of progress in the digitization of civil registration and vital statistics (CRVS) systems in the Arab region and their role in generating reliable data for development planning and monitoring progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It reviews key aspects of CRVS digitization, including the electronic transformation of civil registers, data exchange and interoperability, legal identity, and the institutional frameworks supporting CRVS systems.
Drawing on a regional survey conducted by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), complemented by a desk review, the paper identifies persistent challenges related to interoperability, cybersecurity, infrastructure and institutional capacity, alongside growing national commitment to CRVS digitization. It also underscores the need for strengthened regional coordination and sustained support, and highlights the role of ESCWA in promoting inclusive, resilient and interoperable CRVS systems across the Arab region.
