The magazine

About vISIon

Why this magazine, why now: a statistician's take on the world's pressing challenges.

What vISIon is

vISIon: The ISI Magazine is an initiative of the International Statistical Institute for accessible, rigorous writing on pressing societal issues through a data lens. Built on the society's values of professionalism, truthfulness, integrity and respect, the magazine bridges academia, national statistical offices and industry.

Each issue centres on one UN Sustainable Development Goal and gathers perspectives from across the ISI's seven associations. Our aim is clear, ethical communication that helps society make informed, evidence-based choices.

"Because data touch everyday life, from health and climate to education, jobs and justice, statisticians have a privileged bridge to society."

How it started

For many years the ISI Executive envisioned a communication platform for its members: a space where voices from across the society could converge to discuss important issues from statistical perspectives, share insights and celebrate achievements. A task force led by Fabrizio Ruggeri defined the new publication, and the inaugural issue was presented at the 65th ISI World Statistics Congress in The Hague in 2025.

The name was suggested by a member of the editorial board and approved immediately by the Executive Committee. The magazine is written by the members and for the members of the ISI, and it remains, in the words of its first editorial, a blank slate.

Publishing model

  • Published twice a year as a free PDF, with no subscription and no paywall.
  • Each issue is organised around one Sustainable Development Goal.
  • Sections: editorial, featured articles, teaching, official statistics, software, interviews, country spotlight, community corner.
  • vISIon is not a peer-reviewed journal. Editing is developmental, aimed at clarity and accuracy.

Policies

Conflicts of interest. Unless otherwise stated, authors declare no competing interests.

Submissions and enquiries. Pitches, letters and article proposals go through the contact form. See the submissions page for guidance on length and format.

Disclaimer. Views expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the International Statistical Institute, its associations, editors, partners or supporters. While care is taken, the ISI accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions; readers should assess the appropriateness of any methods described.

About the ISI

Established in 1885, the ISI is a non-profit, non-government organisation with members in over 150 countries. Its mission is to promote the understanding, development and good practice of statistics worldwide by fostering knowledge, sharing best practices and creating opportunities to network. Since 1947 the ISI has held Special Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council.

Besides vISIon, the ISI has two peer-reviewed journals published by Wiley. The International Statistical Review publishes research articles of broad and general interest in statistics and probability. Stat is an innovative electronic journal for the rapid publication of novel and topical research results, publishing compact articles of the highest quality in all areas of statistical endeavour.