The Global Expert Community (GEC) is a curated network of experts, practitioners, academics, and industry leaders convened by the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO).

The GEC mobilizes global expertise to support the design and implementation of high-impact digital economy initiatives across DCO Member States and beyond.

Through structured engagements and working groups, experts contribute to initiatives, research, and capacity-building programs, collaborating with governments and partners to co-create knowledge, inform policy dialogue, and accelerate implementation.

The GEC aims to:

• Mobilize global expertise to support DCO initiatives and programs
• Facilitate knowledge exchange and multilateral collaboration
• Provide technical, strategic, and advisory support across DCO priority areas
• Accelerate implementation through expert-driven contributions
• Strengthen access to specialized knowledge, tools, frameworks, and best practices

Applications are open to qualified professionals in digital economy–related fields from:

• Government entities
• International organizations
• Academia and research institutions
• Private sector organizations
• Civil society and non-profit organizations
• Independent subject matter experts and practitioners

Applicants should demonstrate relevant expertise, professional experience, and the ability to contribute to time-bound initiatives and deliverables.

The GEC supports expertise across DCO priority areas, including but not limited to:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Digital Trade
• Digital Investment
• Data and Digital Infrastructure
• Digital Talent and Skills
• Digital Economy Policy and Governance
• Emerging Technologies
• Digital Inclusion and Innovation
• Cybersecurity and Trust
• Digital Transformation and Adoption

Yes. Participation in the GEC is voluntary and pro-bono in nature unless otherwise specified under a separate engagement arrangement.

No. Inclusion in the GEC roster does not guarantee participation in any specific initiative. Engagements are determined on a selective, time-bound, and needs-based basis, in accordance with defined scopes, deliverables, timelines, and reporting requirements, which will be communicated prior to engagement activation.

Experts are selected through a structured review process based on:

• Relevant expertise in digital economy priority areas
• Professional experience and proven track record
• Alignment with DCO priorities and multilateral collaboration objectives
• Availability to support structured, time-bound engagements
• Commitment to collaboration, professionalism, and confidentiality standards
• Quality and completeness of the application

Applicants are generally expected to have a minimum of 2–3 years of relevant experience. Additional validation steps, including interviews, may be conducted where required.

Selected experts may go through the following onboarding steps:

1. Application review and validation
2. Roster confirmation and Onboarding
3. Completion of confidentiality and compliance requirements (e.g., NDA or conflict of interest declarations)
4. Onboarding and orientation
5. Matching to relevant initiatives, working groups, or activities as opportunities arise

Experts engage through structured pathways aligned with DCO’s multilateral priorities, including but not limited to:

• Expert Dialogues and Roundtables: Participate in high-level discussions shaping digital economy collaboration.
• Capacity-Building Programs: Support training and knowledge initiatives.
• Strategic Advisory Contributions: Provide expert input to support DCO initiatives and programs design.
• Practical Knowledge Assets: Contribute to toolkits, templates, reference models, frameworks, reports, policy briefs, and thought leadership.

Experts will be informed of expected timelines, responsibilities, and level of engagement before participating in any activity.

Yes. Depending on the nature of the engagement, experts may be required to sign:

• Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)
• Conflict of Interest declarations
• Engagement or collaboration agreements
• Other applicable compliance documents

All personal information submitted through the application will be treated as strictly confidential and processed solely for the purposes of applicant assessment and participation within the GEC framework. Data will be processed in accordance with DCO’s policies and procedures, with appropriate technical and organizational safeguards. Personal data will be retained for the duration of active GEC membership and for a period of five (5) years thereafter.

Yes. The GEC welcomes applications from qualified experts globally, subject to alignment with DCO priorities and applicable eligibility requirements.

Yes. Member States, partner organizations, academic institutions, and other entities may nominate qualified experts for consideration.

Selected experts may be contacted directly by the General Secretariat regarding relevant opportunities, initiatives, or activities aligned with their expertise and availability.

No. There is no fee associated with applying to or joining the Global Expert Community.

Interested experts can apply through the official GEC application form available on this page. Click the Apply Now button to get started.

The GEC is managed by the DCO General Secretariat, which oversees the application process, roster management, expert matching, and engagement coordination.

Application reviews are conducted on a rolling basis. Applicants will be notified of the outcome following completion of the review process. Due to the volume of applications, individual feedback may not be provided to all applicants.

The GEC offers its members a unique opportunity to:

• Gain Exposure: Work within a global multilateral organization focused on advancing the digital economy.
• Shape Global Digital Agendas: Contribute to high-impact initiatives advancing digital cooperation across DCO Member States and beyond.
• Global Network & Exclusive Access: Join a curated network of leaders with access to exclusive expert panels, strategic dialogues, and peer exchanges.
• Drive Tangible Outcomes: Co-create practical frameworks, guidance, and toolkits with real-world application.
• Earn Distinguished Recognition: Receive recognition for your contributions consistent with applicable professional standards.