An International Study on Global Space Governance

This book is based on the findings of the Global Space Governance study commissioned by the Montreal Declaration that called upon civil society, academics, governments, the private sector and other stakeholders to compile an international interdisciplinary study examining drivers of space regulations and standards. The world's leading experts led the drafting of chapters, with input from academics and knowledgeable professionals in the public and private sectors, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations from all the regions of the world. 

Part I sets the stage and lays down the general context and importance of the discussion on global space governance, identifying existing issues, trends and lapses in the current general global governance regime and its implications for global space governance. In Part II, each chapter contains a discussion of the evolution, current status and key future trends in the development of space activities, an analysis of the adequacy and/or inadequacy of the currently applicable governance system, and specific and appropriate recommendations. Part III addresses those new and general challenges that have emerged due to significant changes in the scope and nature of global space activities since the 1970’s as well as those wide-ranging issues that are necessary to be addressed in order to maintain space for the benefit of current and future generations of humankind. Part IV contains conclusions, consolidated findings and recommendations for an appropriate future global space governance system.   

The report, a collective work of all the contributors, includes frank and honest statements expressed without any fear of political, national and occupational pressures and implications. It is peer-reviewed and carefully edited in order to ensure its accuracy, preciseness, and readability. This book will serve as a reference document for current practitioners, students, and newcomers in the space sector.