Delegation: Russian Federation
Committee: United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS)
Topic: Governance of Outer Space
Date: March 10, 2025
I. Introduction
The Russian Federation asserts its unwavering commitment to the peaceful and equitable use of outer space—a domain vital to global security, scientific advancement, and sustainable development. As a pioneering spacefaring nation, Russia recognizes the urgent need for robust international governance to address growing challenges such as space militarization, orbital debris, and unequal access to space technologies.
We reaffirm that outer space is the shared heritage of humankind. Its governance must be based on sovereignty, non-interference, and mutual benefit, as enshrined in the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, to which Russia remains a committed signatory. Our delegation supports multilateral cooperation through the United Nations, firmly rejecting unilateral approaches that concentrate power in the hands of a few.
II. National Background and Position
Russia's space legacy is unmatched—from launching the first artificial satellite, Sputnik, in 1957 to its continuing leadership in space exploration, satellite technology, and international cooperation through Roscosmos. By 2025, Russia has advanced its lunar exploration initiatives and remains a primary launch service provider for nations around the world, especially developing states.
Despite these advancements, Russia is deeply alarmed by developments threatening the governance of outer space. The proliferation of anti-satellite (ASAT) weapons, irresponsible commercial activity, and an estimated 170 million pieces of orbital debris threaten both safety and sustainability. Russia has consistently opposed the militarization of space, reflected in its co-sponsorship of the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS) and its 2008 Treaty on the Prevention of the Placement of Weapons in Outer Space (PPWT).
Russia believes governance must:
- Uphold state sovereignty
- Prevent hegemonic control by technologically dominant actors
- Ensure equitable access for all nations, particularly those still developing space capabilities
We oppose unilateral or profit-driven approaches to space resource utilization that bypass the global consensus and violate the spirit of the Outer Space Treaty.
III. Proposed Solutions
1. Adoption of a Binding Treaty Against Space Weaponization
Russia renews its call for the international adoption of the PPWT. This treaty would:
- Prohibit the placement of weapons in outer space
- Ban the use of force against space assets
- Establish legally binding obligations monitored by a UN verification body
- Prevent the weaponization of this peaceful domain
2. International Space Debris Mitigation Framework
Russia proposes a mandatory framework expanding on the UN’s voluntary guidelines. It would:
- Mandate standards for satellite design and end-of-life disposal
- Impose liability for debris-related damage
- Provide technical and financial assistance to developing countries to ensure equitable compliance
3. Equitable Space Technology Cooperation Program
To address global disparities, Russia advocates for a UN-led initiative to:
- Facilitate technology transfer and infrastructure support
- Assist emerging space nations in building satellite systems
- Offer subsidized launch services through Roscosmos as part of international cooperation
4. Strengthening COPUOS Oversight
Russia proposes expanding COPUOS’s mandate to establish a permanent regulatory body that would:
- Monitor satellite launches and orbital activities
- Ensure transparency and compliance
- Adjudicate disputes over orbital slots and space resources
- Operate on a consensus basis to protect all member states' interests
5. Regulation of Commercial Space Activities
In response to the rise of private actors in space, Russia calls for a UN regulatory framework that includes:
- International licensing for space mining and exploration
- Alignment with international space law
- A taxation mechanism funding sustainability projects
- Revenue redistribution to assist developing nations and support space equity
IV. Conclusion
The Russian Federation remains committed to a multilateral, peaceful, and equitable governance structure for outer space. By rejecting the militarization and commercialization of space in favor of cooperation, sustainability, and mutual respect, Russia seeks to ensure that space remains a domain of peace for generations to come.
We invite all nations to join us in shaping a future in which outer space is governed by principles of fairness, security, and global unity.
Signed,
Delegate of the Russian Federation
United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space