Bangladesh has secured a significant international role in satellite-based climate monitoring after the Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL) was recognised as both a signatory to the Space for Climate Observatory (SCO) and the country’s National Focal Point for the global initiative.
The recognition, granted by the SCO Steering Committee, marks Bangladesh’s formal entry into the international alliance led by the French space agency, the Centre National d’Études Spatiales (CNES), which promotes the use of satellite data and Earth observation technologies to address climate change.
BSCL said it submitted its Expression of Interest to the SCO on 8 December 2025 following approval from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications. The organisation has now been formally accepted as Bangladesh’s representative within the global network.
Established by the French government in 2019, the Space for Climate Observatory brings together space agencies, research institutions, universities and international organisations to improve climate resilience through the use of satellite observations, ground-based data and socio-economic information. The platform supports projects that help governments monitor climate impacts, improve forecasting and strengthen evidence-based policymaking.
The SCO has funded climate monitoring and forecasting projects in several countries, including France, China, Haiti, Thailand, Myanmar and Vietnam. In Bangladesh, it is supporting the BanD-SOS project, which aims to provide real-time storm surge forecasts, flood-risk mapping and improved flood prediction during cyclones.
Officials say the new status will provide Bangladesh with greater access to international research collaborations, satellite-based climate data, technical expertise and funding opportunities. They also expect it to strengthen cooperation with global space agencies and research organisations while supporting disaster risk reduction, environmental monitoring, climate resilience and the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
A formal signature ceremony is expected to take place during the Space Summit in Paris on 9 September 2026, where Bangladesh’s membership is scheduled to be officially completed.
Dr Imadul Rahman, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BSCL, described the recognition as an important milestone for Bangladesh’s space and climate diplomacy.
“This is an international acknowledgement not only for BSCL but for Bangladesh,” he said. “It will create new opportunities for research collaboration, technology exchange, capacity building and the wider use of satellite-based climate information. We believe this achievement will further strengthen Bangladesh’s ability to address the challenges of climate change and contribute to building a more sustainable and resilient future.”