UNOOSA calls for strengthened legal frameworks as space activities accelerate

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

The Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), Aarti Holla-Maini, has called for intensified global efforts to strengthen legal and policy frameworks governing outer space as the pace of space activities continues to accelerate.

Speaking at the 65th session of the Legal Subcommittee of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), Holla-Maini underscored the Subcommittee’s central role in shaping international space governance, describing it as “the custodian of one of humanity’s greatest collaborative achievements.”

She noted that as the international community approaches the 60th anniversary of the Outer Space Treaty in 2027, there is an urgent need to advance legal work on key issues, including the peaceful and sustainable use of space resources and enhanced information-sharing under Article XI of the treaty.

The session is expected to address critical areas such as the development of principles for space resource utilization, frameworks for safe lunar operations, and broader discussions on space safety amid the expansion of commercial satellite constellations and renewed lunar exploration efforts.

Holla-Maini emphasized the importance of anticipatory diplomacy, urging member states to remain proactive in adapting legal and regulatory systems to keep pace with technological advancements in the sector. She highlighted that the outcomes of the current session will play a significant role in guiding future space exploration and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Despite the growing demand for support, she acknowledged that UNOOSA is operating under increasing resource constraints, including reduced staffing and financial pressures affecting the United Nations system. She called on member states to provide additional financial and institutional support to enable the office to meet its expanding mandate.

The Director also outlined ongoing capacity-building efforts under the Global Space Law Project, which has provided advisory support to several countries, including Ghana, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Singapore. She noted rising demand for such assistance, with over 60 member states seeking support in developing national space legislation and regulatory frameworks.

In addition, UNOOSA continues to enhance tools such as the ASTRO database, which provides access to international and national space law instruments, supporting greater coherence and harmonization across jurisdictions.

Holla-Maini further highlighted recent milestones, including the registration of thousands of space objects and increased reporting on re-entries, underscoring the growing complexity of space activities and the need for robust governance systems.

She also pointed to collaborative achievements in Africa, including the recent launch of a jointly developed Earth observation instrument by Egypt, Kenya, and Uganda to the International Space Station, describing it as a significant step in regional cooperation and climate monitoring.

Looking ahead, UNOOSA plans to host additional regional workshops on space law and sustainability, as well as its third lunar conference later this year, aimed at fostering dialogue and strengthening international collaboration.

Holla-Maini concluded by urging member states to actively support ongoing reforms within COPUOS and contribute to new initiatives such as the Space Cooperation for Development Fund, designed to ensure that space technologies contribute meaningfully to sustainable development globally.