The development of palliative care is proceeding rapidly in some areas of the world, but major problems continue to exist in several countries and regions. Comparative research evidence to inform palliative care development is limited and can be difficult to obtain, especially for resource poor settings. International collaboration is needed to promote and disseminate an evidence base to support the growth of palliative care. The aims and plans of the newly created International Observatory on End of Life Care are described, together with its orientation to global partnership and collaboration. The Observatory will build on public health models to provide research-based intelligence about palliative care around the world, drawing also on cultural, historical and ethical perspectives.