The first trial census of the register-based population census is now in its summary stage
Estonia’s next Population and Housing Census will be held based on register data, i.e. nothing will be asked directly from people, as the results will be compiled based on the information available from national databases; hence the name of the census – a Register-Based Population and Housing Census (REGREL). In order to hold a register-based census, Statistics Estonia needs the data of at least 20 state registers.
To ensure a successful census, Statistics Estonia holds two trial censuses. The first trial census was conducted this year. During the trial census, the quality of register data, the census methodology and software were tested.
In order to map dwelling data, the data of the Estonian Register of Buildings, Address Data System and Population Register were used. For dwellings, registers contain three types of characteristics: 1. characteristics related to the type and tenancy of a dwelling; 2. technical dwelling characteristics (washing facilities, useful area / number of rooms, water supply system, type of heating, year of construction); 3. characteristics related to ownership.
“The trial census was a success, we were able to test everything we planned to,” noted Andres Oopkaup, Director General of Statistics Estonia. “At the same time, in dwelling enumeration, the trial census highlighted problems with register data, which will have to be solved before the census is conducted,” he added. “The success of the register-based census depends on the quality and technical readiness of register data,” stated Andres Oopkaup. “Improvements in both of these factors will bring benefits to register holders as well as persons receiving public services based on register data,” he explained.
When assessing the results of the trial census in terms of dwelling data, REGREL Project Manager Diana Beltadze noted that, in registers, the presence and quality of data is ensured for characteristics related to the type and tenancy of a dwelling and for characteristics related to ownership. Missing data poses the greatest problem in the case of technical dwelling characteristics; these data had to be supplemented based on the results of the previous Population and Housing Census. “What worries us is that currently the Register of Buildings, which is the main database containing information on dwellings, does not include information that would enable us to describe the situation of the housing stock in the state and that the data of the Register of Buildings are not updated fast enough,” added Beltadze.
The results of the trial census in terms of persons, families and households will be presented by Statistics Estonia in December.