The Dalberg Observatory

About The Dalberg Observatory

The Dalberg Observatory is our effort to look beyond the immediate horizon by offering forward-looking perspectives on the decades ahead.

Drawing on our 25 years of serving those who serve the world, we present thought leadership that applies unconventional lenses to complex, systemic issues. We hope to challenge ourselves and our peers, contribute to ongoing conversations and support decision-makers as they navigate the future.

At the core of the Observatory are “Provocations” and “Perspectives”:

Provocations are short, research-driven inquiries designed to spark debate on under-explored topics, challenge dominant narratives and offer novel outlooks.

Perspectives are in-depth analyses that build on these provocations. These long-form pieces and webinars provide decision-makers the rigorous evidence and practical implications required to navigate the complexities of future shifts and translate ideas to action.

Provocations and Perspectives

What’s Missing in the Future of Jobs Debate?

DO Provocations

What if an AI-enabled nurse could fulfil a doctor’s role?

From Dependency to Destiny: Investing in the South, By the South

DO Perspectives

The era of a stable global aid architecture has ended. What is emerging is a smaller, fundamentally reorganizing aid system, as new actors, instruments, and capital flows reshape how development is financed.

Is Faith-based Capital the Most Underleveraged Asset in Development?

DO Provocations

Religious giving represents one of the largest sources of funding for development. Despite its scale and resilience, faith-based capital remains underrepresented in mainstream development funding and finance conversations.