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Commentary

Seeing the Bigger Picture: A Strategic Analysis of Space for IDA

Authors Nicki McGoh

With the support of

The European Space Agency’s Space for International Development Assistance (Space for IDA) initiative, part of the Global Development Assistance (GDA) program, partners with institutions like the World Bank and Asian Development Bank to show how Earth Observation (EO) data can enhance development work in developing countries. Caribou conducted annual strategic reviews of Space for IDA, analyzing how well its activities align with global development goals and exploring similar initiatives for best practices.

The review conducted in spring 2023 found that Space for IDA’s focus areas align well with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, covering key sectors like urban development, agriculture, climate services, energy, and infrastructure. The program aims to integrate EO into development operations to improve efficiency and decision-making, delivering benefits for both development institutions and partner countries.