As well as being of significance within the context of international comparisons, key statistical data and indicators also form the basis for evidence-based educational policy at a national level. The special focus of the present issue will be on which benchmarks can be selected to "measure" vocational education and training, on how such benchmarks can be developed and on how they can be used within the fields of policy, practice and academic research.
In the Editorial, BIBB President Manfred Kremer marks the 40th anniversary of the institute by looking back to its founding in 1970 and reviewing developments thus far. He comes to the conclusion that adopting such a historical perspective provides us with the courage we require to look to the future and tackle our current challenges.