Arms Control in Outer Space: A Diplomatic Alternative to Star Wars

Outer space enjoys a special status under the 1967 Outer Space Treaty as a realm “beyond national appropriation or claim of sovereignty”, a “global commons” in which exploration and use should be “for the benefit and in the interests of all countries”. This foundational treaty has allowed for half a century of ever expanding peaceful activity in space, free from man-made threats. Ironically, just as satellite launches are increasing exponentially to deliver a vast spectrum of services to humanity, we are witnessing a revival of confrontational approaches on the part of leading powers, one of which has formally designated outer space as a “war-fighting domain” in which military superiority over rivals is sought. There are diplomatic alternatives to the bellicose postures being adopted by some states. For cooperative security options to prevail however will require strong advocacy by concerned states and other stakeholders. If they fail to act their own interests and those of global security and well-being will be put in jeopardy.