The Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar (Government of Myanmar) conducted its most recent census in March/April 2014. This is more than 30 years after the last census in 1983. Censuses are the main source of demographic and socio-economic information in developing countries. Such information is critical to determine levels and changes in the size, distribution, socio-economic characteristics of the population and households over time. In a country like Myanmar, reliable, accurate and timely data is vital for effective development planning, evidence-based decision-making, the peace process and transition to democracy, investment decisions and research. It is therefore important that the data used to assess such changes is accurate and updated regularly.