In the wake of the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which claimed over 230,000 lives and left millions displaced, the urgent need for a coordinated disaster response system among international agencies, governments, and humanitarian organizations became glaringly evident. In response, the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS) was established to bridge the gap between real-time disaster data and response capabilities. Integral to this effort was UNOSAT’s development of the Satellite Mapping Coordination System (SMCS) in 2010, following the Haiti earthquake, which facilitates real-time coordination between mapping organizations during disaster events.

12 July 2024, Abuja, Nigeria – From July 8 to 12, 2023, representatives from various environmental and meteorological agencies in Nigeria convened for a vital workshop aimed at enhancing the nation's capacity in geospatial information technology (GIT). This initiative, part of the project "Strengthening Capacities in the Use of Geospatial Information for Improved Resilience in Asia-Pacific and Africa (2021-2024)," is supported by NORAD and jointly organized by the Federal Ministry of Environment and UNOSAT, the United Nations Satellite Centre.

28 May 2024, Geneva, Switzerland - In the vast expanse of the Pacific, where the azure waters meet lush islands, the threat of climate change is not distant, but a reality deeply anchored in the present. Rising sea levels, frequent flooding, and coastal erosion pose relentless threats to their rich ecosystems and communities. Despite contributing minimally to global carbon emissions, these island nations face staggering costs to bolster their infrastructure against climate-induced hazards. Estimates suggest that Pacific island countries need to invest between 6% and 9% of their annual GDP—which is approximately $1 billion annually for the region—to fortify their defences against climate change. In response to these urgent needs, UNOSAT has stepped up, leveraging its technological prowess and capacity-building initiatives to enhance resilience and safeguard livelihoods. 

8 April 2024, Geneva, Switzerland - Together with several SIDS countries, UN and regional organizations, UNITAR will welcome SIDS4 conference participants on the occasion of a multi-stakeholder side event highlighting the role of evidence, data and satellite technology for resilient futures in SIDS.

The event will take place on 27 May 2024 from 12:00 to 13:30 AST in Room 6 of the Conference Venue and will provide space for sharing country experiences around one of the five main themes of the Conference: "Leveraging Data and Digital Technologies and Building Effective Institutions for a Resilient Future in SIDS."

8 April 2024 - It is with a heavy heart that we learned of the passing of Mr. Marcel André Boisard, former United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and former Executive Director of UNITAR from 1992 to 2007. The news of his departure has deeply saddened us all.

22 March 2024, Suva, Fiji - A Climate Finance Write-Shop held from 5 to 7 March in Suva, Fiji, empowered representatives from Pacific Island nations to secure vital climate finance for their communities. This collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub (CCFAH), the Pacific Community (SPC), and UNOSAT, addressed a critical need for Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) facing the brunt of climate change. 

15 March 2024, Geneva, Switzerland - To celebrate International Women’s Day, UNOSAT hosted on 8 March 2024 a powerful webinar aiming at promoting gender equality by inspiring young women to pursue careers in GIS. Let us have a look back on the insightful discussions and fruitful advice given to young women desiring to commit to a career in this industry during this special event.  

5 March 2024, Geneva, Switzerland - The United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) inaugurates the UNOSAT Knowledge Hub—an innovative platform facilitating connections among stakeholders, including past associates, participants, and UNOSAT trainers. This hub is meticulously crafted to invigorate and enhance expertise in Geospatial Information Technology through a diverse range of learning resources and courses.

28 February 2024, Geneva, Switzerland - An innovative training course on using satellite imagery as evidence in international judicial proceedings has been launched by UNITAR-UNOSAT, the Asser Institute, the Geneva Science-Policy Interface (GSPI) and IUSTICOM. Legal professionals working with international justice organizations are the first beneficiaries of the course concerning technical and legal requirements of using satellite images as evidence in court.

27 February 2024, Geneva, Switzerland - In 2023, UNOSAT faced challenges and achieved milestones. Our mapping team was activated for complex emergencies over 107 times in 60 countries worldwide and provided 634 products and services. Across the globe, our emergency mapping service has provided life-saving information to devastated areas affected by conflicts and disasters triggered by natural hazards.