ABOUT PSN

Based on the contributions by academia and industry for the past five years, at its sixth session, convened in New York in August 2016, the UN-GGIM Committee of Experts discussed the proposal to endorse the establishment of the UN-GGIM Academic and Private Sector Networks. In making decision 6/101 the Committee of Experts, noting that the 2030 Agenda calls for stronger public-private partnerships in order for new data sources and technologies to be harnessed, agreed to the establishment of the Academic Network and the Private Sector Networks (E/C.20/2016/15).

Participation in the PSN will be free and open globally to all private sector organisations and related associations, and will enable such entities to contribute to and expand the global policy capabilities to develop the tools and services to enable geospatial information to be mainstreamed within and across countries.

VISION To foster a dynamic and engaged Private Sector Network (PSN) that collaborates, supports and strengthens UN-GGIM programs that fosters a sustainable global geospatial information agenda.

PURPOSE The UN-GGIM Private Sector Network (PSN) serves as a mechanism for private sector organizations to engage with the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM). It provides a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration between the private sector and the broader geospatial community, supporting the development and use of geospatial information for sustainable development and global good.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES In pursuit of its vision and mission, the UN-GGIM Private Sector Network (UN-GGIM:PSN) shall align its activities with the following guiding principles:

  • 1. Commitment to the Public Good UN-GGIM:PSN is a vital stakeholder within the broader UN-GGIM ecosystem. It shall mobilize private sector resources, innovation, and expertise in service of the greater societal and public good, contributing meaningfully to global geospatial development
  • 2. Inclusive and Representative Engagement The PSN shall actively engage the full spectrum of geospatial and related industries—including small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and industry associations—ensuring broad representation and extending UN-GGIM’s outreach to a wider network of private sector actors. All engagement shall uphold the dignity and spirit of service to society.
  • 3. Fostering Public-Private Collaboration Embracing the principles of interdependence and shared responsibility, PSN shall promote strong public-private partnerships. It will align its efforts with the values of unity, collaboration, and common purpose that underpin UN-GGIM’s mission.
  • 4. Bridging Innovation and Application PSN shall serve as a dynamic interface between geospatial information providers and end-user communities. It will curate and share knowledge through case studies, practical applications, and best practices—demonstrating the value of geospatial information to both traditional and emerging user sectors.
  • 5. Global and Regional Engagement The PSN shall actively collaborate with UN-GGIM regional entities and contribute to global and regional committees. Through this engagement, it will support the development of coherent, scalable, and sustainable geospatial solutions that address regional needs and global priorities.