The “Space Law for New Space Actors” project is, in particular, aimed at helping new and emerging space nations carry out their space activities in a responsible and sustainable manner. It will also strengthen the adherence to the normative framework set up by the Outer Space Treaty, which for over 50 years has enabled exponential growth in space activities and the global space economy.
New space: a Luxembourg priority
The development of the space sector is a priority for the Luxembourg government. With its SpaceResources.lu initiative, the country is a forerunner in encouraging the exploration and use of space resources by private companies. In this context, it has set up partnerships with a growing number of countries. Luxembourg is also a member of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS).
Space law: widening the circle
Luxembourg Minister for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs Paulette Lenert and Simonetta Di Pippo, director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) signed the first financing agreement for the “Space Law for New Space Actors” on 13 November 2019, in the context of the New Space Europe conference held in Luxembourg.
“Research has shown that about 40% of the 169 objectives of the 17 sustainable development goals benefit from the use of satellites,” commented Minister Lenert. “This innovative and forward-looking project aims at including developing countries in order to give them an opportunity to participate in discussions on space law and be part of the new space players in the context of international space law.”
Photo: © Marie De Decker