SOFF: A Key Link in Early Warning Systems
SOFF is an international mechanism under the auspices of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Its objective is to close critical gaps in meteorological and climate observations, particularly in developing countries.
In many regions of the world, especially in Africa, networks of weather stations are absent, insufficient or outdated. Without high-quality data, it is impossible to produce reliable forecasts or to establish effective early warning systems. These systems, however, make it possible to anticipate extreme weather events, save lives and reduce economic losses. As such, they are often considered a high‑impact lever for climate adaptation: relatively low‑cost yet highly effective.
The unique added value of the model implemented by SOFF in countries of the Global South lies in strengthening the financial and operational sustainability of meteorological infrastructure, while promoting data sharing through an innovative “cash‑for‑data” mechanism.
Climate Data: A Global Public Good
Weather forecasts and climate projections do not stop at national borders. They rely on data collected across the entire planet. Improving observations in one region therefore benefits the whole international community. Climate data are thus genuine global public goods.
It is in this spirit of mutually beneficial partnerships that Belgium’s commitment takes shape. Belgian investments in vulnerable countries not only help strengthen their resilience to climate shocks, but also improve the quality of weather forecasting worldwide – including in Europe and in Belgium.
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A Strong Financial and Diplomatic Commitment by Belgium
Belgium is currently the second‑largest donor to SOFF, with a total contribution of €19.18 million. In addition to the €11 million already provided, Belgium has committed an additional €8.3 million (€5.3 million in 2025 and €1.5 million in both 2026 and 2027). This commitment fully aligns with Belgium’s priority focus on climate security, resilience and adaptation.
Beyond financial support, Belgium also plays a clear diplomatic leadership role. Since the summer of 2025, Belgium, through the Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, has co‑chaired the SOFF Steering Committee alongside the Secretary‑General of the WMO. In this capacity, Belgium represents SOFF donors, co‑chairs strategic discussions and mobilises its diplomatic network to actively support the mission of the initiative.
A Major International Event in Brussels
Belgium is hosting the 14th SOFF Steering Committee, taking place from 27 to 29 May in Brussels. During two and a half days, donors, observers , founding institutions (WMO, UNEP, UNDP) and the SOFF Secretariat will come together to review progress, take strategic decisions, and strengthen partnerships.
The agenda includes:
- decisions on new investments in three additional countries, alongside exchanges on the implementation status and impact of existing projects;
- decisions on frameworks for compliance (third phase of the “cash‑for‑data” mechanism), learning, and results;
- mobilisation of new resources, notably through innovative instruments such as the SOFF Impact Bond, aimed at attracting non‑traditional investors such as foundations and philanthropic organisations;
- discussions on international partnerships, target countries, and the management of the programme and its Secretariat.
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Preventing Loss and Damage, Together
For Belgium, supporting SOFF also means taking concrete action to prevent loss and damage in the most vulnerable countries. By strengthening observation and early warning capacities, SOFF enables governments and communities to anticipate extreme events rather than simply endure them. It is an investment in adaptation, disaster risk prevention and sustainable development.
This commitment is the result of a coordinated approach between the Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, Federal Science Policy (BELSPO) and the Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium (RMI). Together, they embody a strong conviction: in the face of climate change, international cooperation is not only necessary, but beneficial for all.
