National Space Law: the case of France and New Challenges for Space Activities
- Paper number
IAC-16,E7,IP,21,x32030
- Coauthor
Ms. Anne-Sophie Martin, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Italy
- Year
2016
- Abstract
i) Why we need a space law? Space activities are risked and the increase level of commercial and private interests in outer space lead the States on developing national legal frameworks for space activities, particularly with regard of their responsibilities. Moreover, there is a general duty to bring internal law into conformity with obligations under international treaties. ii)New challenges of present-day. Nowadays States face up to new challenges, in particular concerning the proliferation of space debris, the possibilities of collisions, the frequency management and the use of the geostationary orbit. Various activities of States consist in strengthening or developing their national space laws and policies, as well as in reforming or establishing the governance of national space activities. The aim is to improve management, increase competitiveness, the respect of the international obligations and to provide development of space activities. National Framework need to be developed, adapted and amended in such a manner that they do not conflict with the principles outlined in the Outer Space Treaty and other relevant United Nations instruments, and to ensure the long-term sustainability of outer space activities. iii) The case of France. Permanent mission of France to the United Nations makes clear that space activities are governed by three principles: freedom access to the outer space for peaceful purposes, safe security and integrity of satellites in orbit, and to respect the right of self-defense. On the other hand, the article 5 of the Law of 3 June 2008 relating to the space activities mentions clearly the fact that activities can be limited if there is a risk for the environment and specifically for limiting risks linked to the space debris. Moreover, space activities can be limited in order to assure the respect of international commitments of France. France supports the project of the International Code of Conduct for Outer Space Activities proposed by the European Union. The latter aims to safeguard the continued peaceful and sustainable use of outer space for current and future generations, and in a spirit of greater international cooperation, collaboration, openness and transparency. Finally, France takes part to the international cooperation notably with Ariane 5 (ESA, CNES) which being used for launching national, european and international satellites. France is also present for international programmes such as Earth Observation and Exploration.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-16,E7,IP,21,x32030.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.