Progressive development in the field of space weapons: what can be expected?

Paper number

IAC-12,E7,1,7,x13222

Author

Dr. Guillermo Duberti, Conicet/ Universidad de Belgrano, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Year

2012

Abstract

An agreement on legal rules governing the use of space weapons appears not only desirable but also necessary in light of the current politico-military development of some states. The topic is far beyond science fiction and today has become a real concern calling for specific legal regulation. So far, codes of conduct, guidelines, general principles and even an international treaty have been drafted. However, it remains to be established which is the best normative approach to controlling weapons of the kind in the short and medium terms.

This paper attempts to explore the feasibility of making some progress on the matter taking into account not only the drafting of new rules but also the way international relations and international policies are moving. These areas have an important part to play insofar as the drafting of effective rules of international law is concerned. In this framework the work of the Conference on Disarmament, the Russian-Chinese Space-Weapons-Ban proposal and the principles drafted in the European scenario will be analysed. 

The objective of this paper is, all in all, to reach some realistic conclusion on the above-mentioned topics and possibilities of advancing on the field.

Abstract document

IAC-12,E7,1,7,x13222.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-12,E7,1,7,x13222.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.