The continuity of indicators during the transition between ECHP and EU-SILC - Products Statistical working papers

EU-SILC is expected to become the reference source of statistics on income, poverty and social exclusion in the EU. It is being progressively launched with effect from 2003 (EU25 member state coverage is expected from 2005 and the regulations will be fully applicable from 2007). It replaces the pioneering ECHP survey, which expired in 2001. There is an unavoidable disruption in the time series of indicators produced. Data collection under the EU-SILC regulations displays some important differences from its predecessor. Similarly, there are important differences between EU-SILC and transitional national data sources. The impact of these various differences can be significant, depending on the country and the indicator(s) concerned. Whilst recognising that it is impossible to isolate and quantify all individual causes, this working paper presents various checks and comparisons which have been made. It is considered to contribute to the understanding of this important transition and its impact.