National Census as a Source of Data on Population

The article discusses major features of censuses, focusing particularly on the recent census of the population of Poland (National Census of Population and Housing 2011, NSP 2011). Description of the census is preceded by a general historical background and by a presentation of the context created by recommendations concerning population censuses provided by international bodies, as well as experiences and practices implemented by various countries. Usefulness of census data on population is analyzed, as well as their advantages and disadvantages and prospects for the future. While the first part of the article discussing the characteristics of the NSP 2011 focuses on the official assumptions underlying the census, adopted methodology, etc., the second part attempts at a critical assessment of these assumptions and of the quality of census data.