The “Space Law for New Space Actors” program is an initiative launched by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA). The primary objective of this program is to provide emerging space-faring nations with the tools and knowledge they need to develop national space laws and policies that are in line with international space law, particularly the United Nations treaties on outer space.
Emerging space actors, which include countries and private entities that are relatively new to space activities, often face significant challenges in navigating the complex legal framework governing space. The international legal principles for space activities are primarily enshrined in a series of treaties and agreements that were established under the auspices of the United Nations. These include:
- The Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies (Outer Space Treaty, 1967).
- The Agreement on the Rescue of Astronauts, the Return of Astronauts and the Return of Objects Launched into Outer Space (Rescue Agreement, 1968).
- The Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects (Liability Convention, 1972).
- The Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space (Registration Convention, 1975).
- The Agreement Governing the Activities of States on the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies (Moon Agreement, 1979).
The “Space Law for New Space Actors” program supports these countries and entities by offering capacity-building and advisory services to help them understand and implement these treaties and principles effectively. This support includes:
- Facilitating access to space law and policy experts who can assist in the drafting of national space legislation and regulations.
- Providing technical assistance in the form of workshops, seminars, and tailored guidance to address the specific needs and concerns of new space actors.
- Offering resources and educational materials to promote knowledge about international space law and the responsibilities of states and non-governmental entities in space activities.
- Encouraging responsible and sustainable practices in the exploration and use of outer space.
By participating in this program, new space actors are better equipped to create regulatory frameworks that ensure their space activities are conducted responsibly, sustainably, and in accordance with international law. This not only benefits the individual actors by providing clarity and stability for their operations but also contributes to the broader international effort to maintain outer space for peaceful purposes and the benefit of all humanity.