UNOOSA concludes global conference on space law and policy with call for stronger sustainability measures

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) has concluded the United Nations Conference on Space Law and Policy: Operationalising Space Sustainability, with experts highlighting the urgent need for coordinated action to safeguard Earth’s orbital environment.

The two-day conference examined the growing challenges posed by increasing space activity, particularly the rise in space debris re-entries. With more countries reporting space objects landing on their territory, delegates noted that the Rescue and Return Agreement agreed in the 1960s is becoming increasingly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving space landscape.

Technical advancements such as active debris removal, on-orbit servicing, autonomous operations and AI-enabled decision-making were identified as key developments that will shape the next decade. Participants stressed that regulatory and policy frameworks must keep pace to ensure these innovations support rather than undermine long-term space sustainability.

Delegates warned that failure to act could render Earth’s orbit unusable, emphasising that moving from principles to practical implementation is both essential and time-critical. UNOOSA reaffirmed that international cooperation remains fundamental, as no single government, operator or manufacturer can ensure space sustainability alone. Speakers called for more shared data, harmonised standards and collective responsibility to protect the space environment for future generations.