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Eastern Europe and the republics of the former Soviet Union are highly advanced in terms of space research and technology which includes remote sensing, but they lack experience in practical applications. The transition from a centralized economy to a market economy has made the private sector, which lacks management experience and requires appropriate training, the successor to government space organizations. Other problems plaguing these countries include a lack of coordination, inadequate administrative structures and outdated technology. The fields of agriculture, yield predictions, environmental monitoring and hazard management have been identified for the promotion of European and regional cooperation.

The 26th UNESCO General Conference in Paris on Oct 24-30, 1991 deliberated on the European development of remote sensing and other space technologies. The deliberations were submitted in two Draft Resolutions. The first Draft Resolution calls attention to the role of remote sensing and geographical information systems in sustainable development and environmental management. The second Draft Resolution suggests the usage of space technology for the activities of the UNESCO and the other specialized agencies of the UN.