Global Commons, Cosmic Commons: Implications of Military and Security Uses of Outer Space

Abstract

Although space was envisaged to be a global commons, in recent years there have been policy shifts that reflect the desire to exert a more dominant presence in outer space, with more proactive, aggressive space security strategies. The notion of a global commons has come under threat, and there is a risk of an emerging space arms race and even of a conflict in space. There is, therefore, a renewed need for restraint in space for both national and global security and for more clarity on the ways in which military and security activities are limited by existing international law.

Keywords: Space Law, Global Commons, Security Policy, Space Security, International Law

JEL Classification: K10, K33