International Development of Space and Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space [PAROS]

Paper number

IAC-09.E8.2.11

Author

Dr. hong je Cho, Korea National Defense University, Korea, Republic of

Year

2009

Abstract

In the half-century since the first launch of Sputnik 1 it has become impossible to consider economic, political, or scientific human life in the communication field without reference to outer space. As proved in the recent Iraq, Gulf, and Kosovo Wars, Space capacity is a necessary actor of modern warfare. Space power is becoming a barometer of national power. Commercial and military activities were developed by the USA and former Soviet Union in the early days, but in the 21st Century many nation participate in space activities either directly or indirectly. Because of the importance of space and security interests, China, Japan, the EU, as well as USA and Russia, spur military and commercial Space development.
Space development contributes to positive human life, but there are increasing concerns that the final frontier - outer space - could become a theater of war. For many observers the prospect of an arms race in outer space is brought closer by the possibility of American and Russian unilateral military use of Space. As a result, there is a growing groundswell of public opinion aimed at preventing such an arms race developing and to guarantee the peaceful use of Space. This is a vital and pressing need.
Because every nation has a different posture on the grounds of national interest, or different levels of Space development, the conditions required for the successful negotiation of a comprehensive treaty are not yet ripe. However, it is possible to conduct studies on the sustainable use of Space, a code of Conduct for Space, and Space debris, as well as practical and confidence building measures such as notification of launch. It is hoped that by beginning with soft measures (CBM, Code of Conduct) for which it is easier to secure voluntary participation it may be possible to build up to a comprehensive treaty.
The participation of the Space powers (USA, Russia, China) in a dialogue of mutual exchange and shared information would contribute to international peace and give a long term benefit to humankind. It is also necessary to promote partnership through regional and bilateral cooperation. We should guide and shape opinion so that more nations ratify and sign existing international legal covenants in order to contribute to the efficacy of Space law. International law needs to enforce PAROS and Space Security.

Key Word: Space Development, PAROS, Space Security, Peaceful use of Space

Abstract document

IAC-09.E8.2.11.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-09.E8.2.11.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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