SWF Statement – UN COPUOS, Agenda Item 13: Future Role and Method of Work of the Committee (May–June 2023)

Secure World Foundation reaffirms the central role of COPUOS in global space governance and introduces its latest publication—the COPUOS Briefing Book—as a resource to help newcomers navigate the Committee’s complex structure and agenda. The statement emphasizes that as space becomes increasingly globalized, COPUOS’s ability to function effectively depends on well-informed participation and inclusive engagement.

Key highlights include:

• Importance of COPUOS:
  As space activities expand globally, SWF notes that COPUOS’s relevance and workload have grown proportionally, with membership reaching 100 states in 2021. The organization’s multilateral nature remains essential for managing common challenges like sustainability and cooperation.
• Introduction of the COPUOS Briefing Book:
  Developed to support delegates and observers, especially newcomers, the publication covers COPUOS’s history, UN system placement, structure, key outcomes, rules of procedure, and working methods. It aims to promote more effective and inclusive participation in space diplomacy.
• Structure and Accessibility:
  The book includes chapters on:
  • COPUOS structure and processes
  • The Scientific and Technical Subcommittee (STSC)
  • The Legal Subcommittee (LSC)
  • The role of Working Groups
    Physical copies were distributed at the 66th COPUOS Session in Vienna and are available online at swfound.org .
• Call to Action:
  SWF encourages delegates to utilize the book as a tool for deeper engagement and informed dialogue, helping ensure the Committee remains an effective forum for global space cooperation into the future.