The Saudi Center for Opinion Polling (SCOP) participation in the WAPOR International Conference in Seoul has laid the foundation for scientific collaboration with European counterparts in developing metrics and standards for response rates in surveys and their impacts.

SCOP concluded its participation in the 77th annual international conference hosted by the World Association for Public Opinion Research (WAPOR), held in Seoul, South Korea, from July 28-31. The conference was attended by hundreds of researchers from 51 countries.

Dr. Abdullah Alhokail, President of SCOP, highlighted the importance of addressing this methodological issue in his research paper, especially considering the current variance in international practices and the lack of specific solutions from recognized international bodies. Following the presentation, Dr. Torbjörn Sjöström, CEO of Novus Group International, contacted Dr. Alhokail, expressing support for the research paper and proposing joint collaboration between SCOP, Novus, and other distinguished European centers that he would invite. Dr. Sjöström emphasized the importance of joint efforts to establish scientific boundaries and standards for response rates in public opinion measurement.

SCOP welcomed this collaboration and confirmed that it had already begun experimenting with solutions.

In another context, as part of SCOP’s participation in the conference, researchers Cees Faber and Saud Alghamdi presented a research paper linking perceived importance, knowledge, and performance during societal transitions. The study adopted Saudi Arabia as a distinctive case study.

WAPOR brings together researchers and practitioners annually in a scientific conference to enhance and develop methodologies and practices for public opinion polls. It is considered the primary reference for professional and ethical standards in this field. This year’s conference was held at Sungkyunkwan University (Seoul, South Korea) under the theme “The Spirit of Public Opinion Research: Freedom, Quality, and Humanity.