This site contains reference material about the International Development Markup Language Initiative  (IDML).   The site was re-launched for the purpose of research and learning.   It contains a collection of documents and research carried out beginning in the fall of 1998 by the Bellanet International Secretariat based at the International Development Research Centre in Ottawa, Canada.  In addition it contains information on related initiatives such as INDIX, CEFDA, and Aida.

IDML is still used in organizations such as the Development Gateway’s AidData.org Initiative.   Several of the key people and organizations who helped create IDML and Accessible Information on Development Activities (Aida), now AidData.org have been involved with the more recent International Aid Transparency Initiative (IATI).

From the original IDML website – 1999

“The IDML Initiative was formed to discuss the possibility of a International Development Markup Language, or IDML, for the international development community. IDML would become a data exchange standard for information that is specific to international development, making it much easier to share information with regional offices, partner agencies and with the public. It will also be easier to find and manage information about who is doing what, and where.

This is a global standards-setting activity which will have radical implications for development planning over the next 10-20 years. We urge all sectors of the development community to participate. Whether you belong to a multilateral, private sector, charitable, academic, or non-governmental organization, add your voice to this collaborative effort.”