Overview
Observer Status at the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) is a consultative designation that enables external stakeholders to engage meaningfully with the Organization’s policymaking processes, initiatives, and strategic direction, without being formal voting members. It is designed to foster structured dialogue, mutual knowledge exchange, and partnership development across the digital ecosystem.
This status provides Observers with a formalized avenue to contribute their expertise, insights, and innovations to DCO’s work while aligning with its mission of advancing inclusive digital prosperity. Through Observer Status, entities can participate in targeted consultations, policy labs, working groups, and collaborative projects that help shape the digital future across regions.
Critically, Observer Status also grants access to DCO’s global and national network of key players, including ministers, regulators, tech executives, multilateral organizations, entrepreneurs, and researchers—facilitating multi-stakeholder collaboration. Observers are encouraged to engage directly with DCO Member States through co-created initiatives, knowledge transfer, and investment opportunities, reinforcing their impact on digital transformation efforts in emerging and developing markets.
By joining the DCO as Observers, organizations position themselves at the heart of a fast-growing international platform dedicated to building an inclusive, interoperable, and opportunity-rich digital economy.
Who Can Become an Observer?
Entities eligible for Observer Status include:
- International and regional organizations
- Private sector companies and industry associations
- Academic and research institutions
- Civil society and non-profit organizations
- Startups and innovation-driven enterprises
- Other stakeholders with a demonstrated commitment to digital cooperation
Observer Categories
Observers are classified into five categories based on their strategic alignment with DCO’s mission and the level of financial or in-kind contribution:
Category | Annual Contribution | Profile |
Champion | $500,000+ (financial only) | High-impact contributions aligned with DCO flagship initiatives. |
Impact | $100,000+ (in-kind or financial) | Partners supporting SDG-aligned programs and offering technical or policy expertise |
Mission | $50,000+ (in-kind or financial) | Initiative-specific or regional collaboration partners. |
Core | $2,000 (Financial) or exempt for eligible sectors | General supporters including: NGOs, academic bodies and foundations. |
Ambition | Exempt | Startups aligned with DCO’s mission; no contribution required. |
What Do Observers Get?
Depending on the category, observers gain access to a set of privileges including:
- Strategic Access: Participation in the DCO General Assembly, flagship events, working groups and briefings.
- Visibility & Branding: Recognition on DCO’s website, social media platforms, publications, and award programs.
- Knowledge Sharing: Access to curated policy toolkits, research repositories, expert networks, and real-time insights.
- Program Engagement: Involvement in DCO initiatives such as STRIDE (Entrepreneurship), Digital FDI, Skills Universe, and digital policy labs.
How to Apply
Interested entities can apply by submitting the following:
- A completed Observer Application Form (see below)
- A signed letter of interest (on official letterhead)
- An organizational profile or brochure
- Optional: relevant documents such as partnership agreements, MoUs, or project briefs
The DCO Secretariat will assess applications based on strategic relevance, contribution type, and alignment with the DCO’s vision. Successful applicants will be officially notified.
Current Observers
[Insert logos or linked names of current Observers – each with a short descriptor and optional redirect to their official website.]