This report is based on a master set of data that has been compiled by an Inter-Agency and Expert
Group on MDG Indicators led by the Department of Economic and Social Affairs of the United
Nations Secretariat, in response to the wishes of the General Assembly for periodic assessment
of progress towards the MDGs. The Group comprises representatives of the international
organizations whose activities include the preparation of one or more of the series of statistical
indicators that were identified as appropriate for monitoring progress towards the MDGs, as