Ethnic statistics are demographic data that categorize populations according to ethnic, racial or cultural criteria. They may include information on national origin, skin color, religion, mother tongue or other cultural characteristics. These statistics are used in many countries to study population diversity, measure inequalities and draw up public policies.

In France, the collection of ethnic statistics is prohibited in principle by the 1978 "Informatique et Libertés" law. This prohibition is based on the republican principle of equality and the desire to avoid any ethnic categorization of the population. However, there are exceptions:

  • Objective" data such as nationality or country of birth are permitted,
  • Occasional studies may be authorized by the CNIL (Commission Nationale de l'Informatique et des Libertés),
  • Surveys on "sense of belonging" are possible.

This approach contrasts with that of other countries, notably in the English-speaking world, where ethnic statistics are widely used to measure and combat discrimination.

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