UNOSSC and the European Space Agency (ESA) convened a successful briefing session on 13 November 2025 to explore the utilization of Satellite Earth Observation (EO) data for sustainable development. The hybrid session brought together over 60 participants from across all regions, whose active engagement enriched the discussion and reaffirmed the growing demand for EO-driven insights in the context of South-South and triangular cooperation.
Participants received practical guidance on articulating national priorities and Expressions of Interest for leveraging EO data in development planning. Presentations showcased concrete capabilities, use cases, and case studies across climate action, agriculture, and urban development – demonstrating both the tangible value of EO applications already in use and their significant potential for scaling and institutional adoption.
Member States also shared valuable experiences and priorities, helping to deepen collective understanding of how satellite EO data can support evidence-based policymaking, South-South and triangular cooperation, and expanded partnerships. The session underscored the transformative opportunities that EO technologies offer for accelerating sustainable development across the Global South and North.
UNOSSC and ESA extended their sincere appreciation to all participants and look forward to continued collaboration in this important area.
?? For further information on existing EO capabilities and other relevant information please visit the ESA’s GDA Knowledge Hub and the ESA’s GDA Impact Sphere.
?? For further information you may contact: Dumitru Vasilescu; UNOSSC Research Specialist; dumitru.vasilescu@unossc.org
