Data for Inclusive Development: Confronting Blind Spots in Evidence-Based Policy

Despite the growing emphasis on evidence-based policy design, development strategies often continue to overlook the lived realities of marginalized communities. Pakistan remains one of the most surveyed populations in the Global South, yet critical data blind spots persist—particularly in relation to women, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. This session explores how data collection methods and institutional biases can unintentionally exclude key voices, leading to skewed priorities and exclusionary policies.

Building on the principles of evidence-informed policymaking, the session will critically unpack the limitations of current data ecosystems and reflect on who gets counted, whose experiences are overlooked, and why this matters for inclusive development. The discussion will conclude with practical strategies for designing more equitable and representative data systems—ones that can truly support development that leaves no one behind.to be filled soon