President Pezeshkian Emphasizes Data-Driven Governance to Combat Corruption

President Pezeshkian Speaking at a ceremony commemorating World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, stated that sound decision-making hinges on the availability of precise, accurate, and current data. He further emphasized that compiling such data necessitates not only robust collection infrastructure but also the definition of standardized indicators and methodologies.

"A country, organization, or even a household cannot function effectively without accurate data and information," President Pezeshkian remarked, addressing attendees. "A manager who lacks a clear understanding of the present and the intended destination cannot build a successful future."

He stressed the need for reliable data in key sectors such as economics, industry, commerce, and agriculture, asserting that informed decisions can only be made with access to pertinent information. Failure to leverage real-world data and effective communication, he argued, inevitably leads to stagnation. "Weak information translates to weak decision-making, a deficiency that can result in defeat in the face of global competition," he warned.

Drawing on his experience as a parliamentarian, President Pezeshkian recounted his long-standing advocacy for a data-driven system to facilitate informed policymaking and management. He lamented the existing inadequacies in the country's information infrastructure, pointing out that a lack of traceable data fuels corruption, bribery, smuggling, and land grabbing. "When we lack visibility into who is doing what and where, deviations and violations are inevitable," he asserted.

The President cited examples of illegal construction and large-scale financial misappropriations, highlighting the difficulty of tracking such activities due to data gaps and inadequate oversight. He specifically criticized the failure to implement a "unique location code" law passed in 1997, which was designed to provide precise property registration and tracking.

“Local departments can register projects without accurate details being reflected in a central system, creating opportunities for abuse, with everyone ultimately bearing the cost,” Pezeshkian explained.

President Pezeshkian also highlighted the need for standardization of data across government agencies. He criticized the current fragmented landscape in areas like healthcare, where incompatible software systems hinder effective collaboration and resource utilization. He emphasized that unless information is accessible to all relevant stakeholders in a consistent format, its value is diminished.