Space for IDA Progress Review

Satellite Earth Observation (EO) can be a powerful tool in international development but is often underutilized. Global Development Assistance (GDA) is a global partnership to mainstream the use of satellite EO in development operations. Through GDA, the European Space Agency (ESA) partners with European service providers to facilitate the development of EO products for use by decision-makers in international financial institutions.

Imperative Space, as part of the Measurement and Evaluation for Global Development Assistance activity led by Caribou Space, produced this short film inspired by a review of the initial stages of the Space for IDA Cooperation Framework between ESA, World Bank, and Asian Development Bank. The film outlines the current status and progress of the collaboration, highlights lessons learned, and offers recommendations to maximize the future impact of the framework, as featured in the Space for International Development Assistance Cooperation Framework Review Year 1.

First shown at ESA’s GDA Industry Engagement Day at ESRIN, the film takes a closer look at some of the key elements of the GDA program, particularly the creation of the first seven GDA Agile Information Development activities. The film highlights how “triangular cooperation” is used successfully in the initiative, establishing trust between the three actively engaged partners, and how this complementary approach contributes towards reaching the program’s objectives. The film features interviews, comments, and insights about the future of the GDA program from representatives from ESA GDA, World Bank, and Asian Development Bank.