The Cross-cutting Nature of Space Security

Space activities are becoming ever more central to the lives of all global citizens. From finance to farming, disaster relief to military operations, space is now a critical component of the modern world. The fragile space environment, however, is becoming increasingly heavily utilized as more and more actors engage in outer space activities or derive services from space-based assets.

In this context, the international community is working hard to address challenges to outer space stability and security. The work of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNCOPUOS), the Conference on Disarmament, in addition to other international processes at the regional level, have seen significant progress. Furthermore, the 2013 Report of the Secretary General’s Group of Governmental Experts on Transparency And Confidence-Building Measures In Outer Space Activities clearly recognized the cross-cutting impact of space security concerns on all aspects of outer space activities.

Organized by the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) and SWF in the margins of the First and Fourth Committees of the 69th United Nations General Assembly, this invitation-only panel event brought together key voices within the UN system and civil society to discuss current UN initiatives and the importance of a holistic approach to developing a resilient space security regime.

For questions about the event, please contact SWF Project Manager Laura Delgado López.