The UN Principles on Remote Sensing today

Paper number

IAC-05-E6.1.01

Author

Prof. Maureen Williams, CONICET and University of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Year

2005

Abstract

Part I addresses the validity of the 1986 UN Principles on Remote Sensing and their consistency in today's international scenarios. After analysing the description of remote sensing activities contained in Principle I, drafted at a time when the magnitude of commercial space activities was not really envisaged in its present dimensions, the article examines a number of specific areas such as the free distribution and comercialisation of data collected by satellites, once processed, vis-à-vis  the demand for more precision, on the part of developing countries, regarding certain phrases embodied in the Principles. Such, inter alia, "the legitimate rights and interest of the sensed State", the implications of "international cooperation" and the "participation of  the sensed state in remote sensing activities". The confrontation of the industrialised and developing world over these issues remains outstanding. 

Part II discusses the advisability of moving towards binding rules on remote sensing, and examines the political will of space-faring countries on this point. Perhaps, the author observes, a discussion of the Principles in new light, without further implications, would be useful taking into account the fact that remote sensing activities have grown considerably in recent times and becoming more accessible to developing countries. 

Part III refers to the delicate problems arising from the use of data collected by earth observation satellites in different areas and its value as evidence in international litigation, particularly in connection with boundary disputes. 

Abstract document

IAC-05-E6.1.01.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-05-E6.1.01.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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