The Group on Earth Observations is an important global platform that brings together the efforts of countries, international organizations, and the scientific community to address contemporary challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, biodiversity conservation, and other critical issues. In this context, it places particular emphasis on the application of Earth observation and remote sensing data, as well as on ensuring broad access to such data.

By joining this prestigious initiative in 2014 and later becoming actively involved in its governing bodies, Armenia clearly demonstrated its readiness to serve as an active participant in international scientific and technological cooperation and as a responsible partner in advancing scientific diplomacy.

In this process, a central role is played by Armenia’s research and education sector, which has consistently advanced interdisciplinary geo-environmental studies and promoted the application of cutting-edge Earth observation and aerospace remote sensing technologies. Through the active engagement of the country’s scientific community and research and education institutions, Armenia continues to demonstrate its growing scientific potential and its commitment to strengthening international scientific and technological cooperation. This engagement also creates important opportunities for fostering the sustainable development of the research and education sector through scientific diplomacy, knowledge exchange, and collaborative innovation.

Today, we can confidently state that Armenia’s participation in the Group on Earth Observations creates tangible opportunities for accessing modern data platforms, strengthening national scientific and technological capacities, and expanding international cooperation.

Particularly important is the legal and strategic framework established by our country in the field of space activities, which will contribute to the sustainable development of the sector and the implementation of new initiatives, while creating a favorable environment for the synergy of science and foreign policy.

In the coming years, we see significant potential for deepening Armenia’s involvement, particularly within the framework of GEO’s leading initiatives, such as the Global Ecosystems Atlas - one of GEO’s flagship initiatives aimed at creating the first comprehensive and openly accessible map of the world’s ecosystems through the integration of national and global data into a unified platform. We are pleased to note that Armenia has expressed its readiness to join this important initiative by contributing its scientific expertise and data resources. We also anticipate that the outcomes of this cooperation will be presented during the 2026 Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (COP17), which will take place in Armenia from 18 to 30 October. This will provide a unique opportunity to showcase Armenia’s scientific potential and contribution to the global environmental agenda, while further promoting international scientific dialogue and cooperation.

GEO community of Armenia

Shushanik Asmaryan

GEO Focal Point of Armenia

Center for Ecological-Noosphere Studies, Armenia