This archive provides microdata files for secondary research, originating from surveys, together with the technical information necessary for their use.

They are presented in two different ways, depending on whether the files are actually stored in the CIS or, on the contrary, what is available is the contact information for the organisation entrusted with their conservation:

• Data Files stored in the CIS: Available in the same form as those for surveys carried out directly by the organisation and they make up the real archive.



• Data Files not stored in the CIS: In this case, the basic information is catalogued and either access is given to the data or contact details are given for the organisation that can provide the data. This constitutes the ARCES virtual archive.

• CIS Surveys: There are currently over 1,500 studies and surveys that have been conducted by the Centre on public opinion topics, such as values, political leanings, consumer matters, employment, the media, health, and many more.



• Other national studies, from surveys carried out by the Ministerio de Trabajo, the INJUVE the CIRES (Centro de Investigación de la Realidad Social), etc.



• ISSP surveys (International Social Survey Program). The ISSP is a joint project involving several countries, the principal aim of which is to conduct studies using a common methodology to provide a wide range of geographical data and, at the same time, the possibility of performing comparisons at the international level. The files of the studies conducted to date are available in the CIS, and can be provided to users upon request.



• ICPSR studies (Inter-University Consortium for Political and Social Research). This private American institution holds a collection of research and teaching studies that cover a wide range of academic disciplines, including political science, sociology, history, economy, gerontology, demography, criminal justice, public health, education, law and international relations. The CIS, as the ICPSR’s official representative in Spain, acts as intermediary for obtaining the microdata files. The complete ICPSR catalogue can be consulted on the internet.



• CESSDA studies (Council of European Social Science Data Archives). This organisation has gathered a collection of social studies data archives from different European countries. It is dedicated to encouraging data acquisition, storage and distribution, facilitating the exchange of information and technology amongst its members. When an ARCES user wishes to obtain a specific CESSDA file, the CIS makes the necessary arrangements to provide it. The integrated CESSDA catalogue can also be consulted on the internet.



• Other studies at the international level. These include the Encuesta Nacional de Valores, the Latinobarometer and others obtained through collaboration agreements with archives that provide exchanges. The agreement with the Roper Center provides access to an extensive collection of Latin American studies.