This publication presents time series comparative statistics and indicators on core areas of economic and social development in ESCWA member countries for 2008. This issue of the Statistical Abstract consists of 11 chapters, each focusing on one of the following: population and labour force, education and illiteracy, health, gender equality, national accounts, energy, industry, transport, foreign trade, financial statistics and prices, and information and communications technology. Facts and figures in the Statistical Abstract were drawn from national statistical sources in the ESCWA region, countries' feedback from questionnaires prepared by ESCWA and data issued by international organizations, giving priority to the United Nations sources.