MAPPING STATISTICAL DATA: POSSIBILITIES OF EUROSTAT-MAP.JS LIBRARY

Abstract. Access, availability, and general interest in open data have increased significantly over the past decade. Open data can be published by various organizations and individuals, with public organizations being the largest producers of open data. Despite governments' efforts to publish a large number of high value datasets on open data portals, data reuse is still not satisfactory because users often lack the technical skills required to reuse data. Research has shown that providing open-source software and tools can help solve this problem. Since statistical datasets are among the high-value datasets and their visualization on a map can help in decision-making, this research explores the possibilities of using the Eurostat-map.js library, a novel JavaScript tool, to enable non-specialized users (e.g., researchers, journalists, and citizens) to use Eurostat statistical data to create thematic maps. By analysing use cases that utilize the Eurostat-map.js library and exploring cartographic principles and techniques available for mapping official statistical data, this research addresses its capabilities, limitations, and opportunities for future development. Although the eurostat-map.js library aims to provide a user-friendly approach, it is important to note that non-specialist users may still face challenges in using the library due to their limited technical and cartographic expertise. Creating maps and effectively visualizing Eurostat data requires a certain level of technical skills and cartographic knowledge. Non-specialist users, such as researchers, statisticians, journalists, and government agency personnel, who do not have extensive experience in programming or cartography, may find it more difficult to use the library than specialists in these fields.