DIM Taskforce kicks off with first meeting

27 Jun 2025 | by francesca@iwlearn.org
On 26 June 2025, IW:LEARN convened the first meeting of the newly launched Data and Information Management (DIM) Taskforce, bringing together representatives from across the GEF International Waters (IW) portfolio to foster a more coordinated and sustainable approach to managing data and information.

The session opened with a tour de table, allowing members to share their backgrounds and long-standing commitment to improving data systems. The discussion quickly turned to the foundation of the DIM Taskforce: building on earlier work under LME:LEARN to establish common standards, enhance interoperability, and support long-term sustainability of data beyond individual project cycles.  

Key highlights included:  

  • Updating the Metadata Catalogue to reflect both regional and national datasets, with an emphasis on user-friendly, searchable formats;  
  • Calls for reintroducing robust indicators aligned with IW project cycles and transboundary challenges;  
  • Proposals for new tools, including an Indicator Builder and greater use of AI to enhance searchability and metadata extraction;  
  • Emphasis on interoperability between project and national systems to ensure data longevity and relevance;  
  • Recognition that project engagement is essential, but that engagement must be incentivised and clearly tied to project outcomes like TDA development and reporting.  

As Claudette Spiteri, GEF IW:LEARN Project Manager, noted, the taskforce will initially focus on revitalising the IW:LEARN metadata catalogue as a first concrete step, while planning a broader outreach campaign to bring more projects into the fold.  

"The goal is simple: help projects help themselves by making data easier to manage, access, and share, now and into the future."  

We welcome more project representatives to join the Taskforce!   

If your project is working on data, indicators, or information systems or facing challenges in these areas, your input is essential.   

Get in touch at info@iwlearn.org to join the conversation.  

Stay tuned for updates and the next DIM Taskforce call, scheduled for autumn 2025.