as “process” stage collection, “output” stage data (or those recorded after a case has been fully investigated or adjudicated within the relevant legal system) may be considered for purposes of periodic revision or reclassification of cases. Data comparability The uniform application of the preceding definitions, coverage, and stage of data collection, reference period, counting unit and counting rules would help ensure data comparability across countries and data source. Data structure definition In step with the broad approach of international and supranational statistical agencies (ISSAs) to global data reporting and sharing, this indicator will eventually be developed further to include a Data Structure Definition (DSD)9 that conforms to Statistical Data and Metadata eXchange (SDMX) standards. SDMX is seen by ISSAs as the preferred modality for the collection and exchange of SDG data. Using SDMX is also expected to reduce national and international reporting burdens for the SDGs. Data storage, handling and risk management The overriding human rights principle of do no harm should always be respected. Data on personal characteristics, when collected for reasonable statistical purposes, must be kept safe and used only for the benefit of the groups it describes and society as a whole. Data collection processes should not create or reinforce existing discrimination, bias or stereotypes exercised against population groups, including by denying their identities. Any objections by these populations must be taken seriously. Do no harm also means that nothing in this guidance note should be interpreted as an invitation, encouragement or endorsement of any initiative or practice that seeks to discriminate against population groups and expose them to risks of serious human rights violations (or which has this effect). No use of data shall be countenanced where these risks could not be avoided or mitigated significantly. 9 The DSD is metadata describing the structure and organization of a data set, the statistical concepts and attached to them code lists used within the data set. https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/fpfis/mwikis/sdmx/index.php/SDMX 10