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. 

The DCO’s mission is to enable digital prosperity for all by accelerating inclusive growth across digital economies. With a 4-Year Strategic Agenda (2025–2028) anchored on four pillars Digital Enablers, Digital Corridors, Digital Business & Innovation, and Digital Society the DCO provides a platform where Observers can directly contribute to initiatives such as Digital FDI, Skills Universe, WeElevate, Ethical AI, E-Waste Management, and the Digital Economy Navigator (DEN). 

Through Observer Status, entities gain a structured avenue to exchange knowledge, co-create solutions, and support impactful programs aligned with Member States’ needs. Observers can actively participate in policy labs, thematic working groups, flagship events, and pilot projects, while also gaining access to the DCO’s international network of ministers, regulators, entrepreneurs, tech leaders, and development institutions. 

By joining the DCO as Observers, organizations position themselves at the heart of a fast-growing global platform shaping an interoperable, inclusive, and opportunity-rich digital economy. 

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

Observers are classified into five categories based on their strategic alignment with DCO’s mission and the level of financial or in-kind contribution:

• Participation in thematic working groups with Member States and private sector stakeholders. 
• Co-creation of knowledge products and digital public goods. 

• Participation in the General Assembly (GA), Digital Prosperity Summit (DPS), Digital Prosperity Awards (DPA), and International Digital Cooperation Forum (IDCF). 
• Active involvement in the Observer Committee with facilitation of access to relevant government stakeholders. 
• Early insight into regulatory developments, investment trends, and national digital priorities. 
• Support for market expansion and facilitation of investment opportunities in DCO Member States, including linkages with multilateral development banks (MDBs) for large-scale digital initiatives. 

• Participation in thematic working groups on digital trade, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and AI ethics. 
• Collaboration in policy innovation labs with Member States and partners to co-develop forward-looking legislation and frameworks. 
• Advisory role in shaping cross-border digital cooperation. 

• High-level engagement with governments, regulators, and development agencies at flagship events. 
• Cross-regional partnerships with peer companies, innovators, and startups. 
• Observer-to-Observer collaborations and industry coalitions. 
• Access to curated investor networks, capital-matching opportunities, and MDB engagement channels. 

• Featured visibility on DCO’s website, publications, and media channels. 
• Branded presence at Digital Prosperity Summit (DPS), Digital Prosperity Awards (DPA), and International Digital Cooperation Forum (IDCF). 
• Speaking opportunities at high-level DCO summits, roundtables, and global events. 
• Recognition as a trusted partner in inclusive digital transformation. 

• Proprietary insights and diagnostics via the Digital Economy Navigator (DEN), including Observer-only geopolitical and regulatory briefings. 
• Practical toolkits and frameworks for digital maturity and market readiness. 
• Direct access to expert networks and exchanges through the Observer Committee. 

• STRIDE – Entrepreneurship and startup empowerment. 
• Digital FDI – Shaping investment environments and creating pipelines for international capital flows. 
• Skills Universe – Workforce development and reskilling. 
• WeElevate – Empowering women to thrive in the digital economy. 
• Ethical AI – Promoting responsible AI innovation and governance. 
• Pilots and sandboxes for emerging technologies in collaboration with Member States.

The DCO Secretariat assesses applications based on strategic relevance, contribution type, and alignment with DCO’s mission and 4-Year Agenda. Successful applicants will be officially notified. 

Interested entities can apply by submitting the following: 

1. A completed Observer Application Form (see below)
2. A signed letter of interest (on official letterhead)
3. An organizational profile or brochure
4. Optional: Relevant supporting documents (partnership agreements, MoUs, project briefs, etc.)

Application Journey Timeline: 

1. Online Application Submission (Day 0)

• • Entity submitsthe Observer Application Form, letter of intent, and supporting documents through the DCO portal. 

2. Eligibility & Initial Review (Week 1–2)

• • The DCO Secretariatassigns a representative to verify eligibility and completeness of documents. 
  • Applicants may be asked for clarifications or additional

3. Evaluation of Contributions (Week 3–4)

• • Secretariatassesses proposed financial or in-kind contributions based on fair market value, scope, and alignment with DCO priorities. 
  • Conduct both introductory and technical meetings.

4. Recommendation & Endorsement (Month 2)

• • Champion category→ reviewed by the Executive Committee before being forwarded to the Council. 
  • Impact, Mission, Core, Ambition categories→ reviewed by the Secretary-General before being forwarded to the Council. 

5. Council Approval (Depends onthe Scheduled Council Session) 

• • Final decision taken by the Council of the DCO.
  • Councilmeets biannually; approval is therefore tied to its official calendar. 

6. Official Notification (Within 30 Days of Council Decision)

• • The Secretariat formally notifies the applicant of admission.
  • Observer Status becomes effective immediatelyupon notification.