 Data migration remains essential to informing public discourse and developing policies that improve the lives of migrants and their communities. But basic data on the numbers and characteristics of international migrants, and also on the causes and impacts of international migration, remains scarce. Conflict, health emergencies, and other global challenges have deepened data gaps in recent years. The Third International Forum on Migration Statistics is a unique opportunity for officials, experts, and practitioners to discuss together ways to fill these gaps and support evidence-based policies. I'm heartened to see data related to the global compact for migration taking center stage at this forum, as well as the need to strengthen data to assist migrants that are in vulnerable situations and discussions around innovative methods to tackle common challenges. Together with UNDESA and OECD, I am hopes to provide a space for an open sharing of experiences and practices. Through our flagship global data institute and other initiatives, we remain committed to helping strengthen national data systems and develop the capacities of stakes and other stakeholders, data to understand the risks migrants face on their journey, data to promote effect-based narrative on migration, and prevent the spread of hateful rhetoric, data to ensure better preparedness to mitigate the risks of climate-related hazards and conflicts, and data to improve migrant lives.