The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO) have initiated a collaborative effort under the "Space Law for New Space Actors" project. This partnership aims to enhance the capacity of APSCO member states in developing national space legislation that aligns with international space law, thereby promoting the responsible and sustainable use of outer space.

Background of the Collaboration

UNOOSA, established in 1958, serves as the primary body within the United Nations responsible for promoting international cooperation in the peaceful use and exploration of outer space. APSCO, founded in 2008, is an intergovernmental organization comprising member states from the Asia-Pacific region, dedicated to fostering space cooperation and development among its members.

The "Space Law for New Space Actors" project was launched by UNOOSA in 2019 to assist emerging space-faring nations in drafting national space legislation and policies that are consistent with international space law. This initiative aims to ensure that new space actors can conduct their activities responsibly and sustainably, contributing to the long-term sustainability of outer space operations. ([onuitalia.com](

Objectives of the Joint Technical Workshop

In June 2023, UNOOSA and APSCO co-hosted the "UNOOSA/APSCO Joint Technical Workshop on National Legislation for APSCO Member States 2023" at the Vienna International Centre in Austria. The workshop's primary objectives were:

  • Needs Assessment: Evaluating the specific requirements of APSCO member states concerning national space legislation.
  • Awareness Raising: Enhancing understanding of the fundamentals of international space law among national authorities.
  • Capacity Building: Facilitating networking opportunities between national authorities and international experts to strengthen the development of national space legislation.

This workshop was a crucial component of the comprehensive capacity-building efforts aimed at assisting APSCO member states in formulating national space laws that adhere to the existing normative framework governing outer space activities. ([](

Significance of the Collaboration

The collaboration between UNOOSA and APSCO is significant for several reasons:

  • Regional Focus: By concentrating on the Asia-Pacific region, the partnership addresses the unique challenges and opportunities faced by countries in this area as they develop their space capabilities.
  • Capacity Building: The initiative provides tailored support to member states, enabling them to create legal frameworks that promote the safe and sustainable use of outer space.
  • International Cooperation: The joint effort exemplifies the United Nations' commitment to fostering international collaboration in space activities, ensuring that all nations can benefit from space exploration and utilization.

As noted by Niklas Hedman, Acting Director of UNOOSA, "Over 70 Member States, including many from Asia and the Pacific region, are currently operating national space programmes, with many more considering space activities in the near future. These realities underscore the pressing need to raise awareness of and adherence to the existing normative framework governing outer space activities." ([](

Broader Impact of the "Space Law for New Space Actors" Project

The "Space Law for New Space Actors" project has had a broader impact beyond the APSCO collaboration. UNOOSA has conducted various technical advisory missions and workshops worldwide, assisting countries in developing national space legislation and policies. For instance, in November 2023, UNOOSA delivered a technical advisory mission to Costa Rica, focusing on drafting a national space policy and raising awareness about the importance of ratifying the UN Treaties on Outer Space. ([unoosa.org](

Additionally, in April 2025, UNOOSA and Singapore's national space office, the Office for Space Technology & Industry (OSTIn), collaborated under the "Space Law for New Space Actors" project. This partnership aimed to assist Singapore in developing its space sector in line with international standards, reflecting the increasing strategic importance of space activities for innovation, economic growth, and sustainability. ([spacewatch.global](

Conclusion

The collaboration between UNOOSA and APSCO under the "Space Law for New Space Actors" project represents a significant step toward enhancing the capacity of emerging space-faring nations in the Asia-Pacific region. By providing tailored support in developing national space legislation, this initiative contributes to the responsible and sustainable use of outer space, ensuring that all nations can participate equitably in space exploration and utilization.

Sources

  • United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) — UNOOSA and APSCO collaborate under the Space Law for New Space Actors Project —
  • United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) — Annual Report 2023 —
  • UNOOSA and Singapore Partner for Space Law for New Space Actors Project —
  • UNOOSA and KSA Collaborate under Space Law for New Space Actors Project —
  • UNOOSA signed agreement with Government of Luxembourg to launch new "Space Law for New Space Actors" project —