A/RES/75/36
Reducing space threats through norms, rules
and principles of responsible behaviours
Urging all States, when developing, planning and executing their space
activities, to remain committed to the peaceful exploration and use of outer space and
to refrain from conducting activities contrary to their obligations under international
law, including those that could threaten the ability of all States to freely use and
explore outer space, now and in the future,
Stressing that the creation of long-lived orbital debris arising from the deliberate
destruction of space systems increases the risk of in-orbit collisions and the potential
for misunderstanding and miscalculations that could lead to conflict,
Reaffirming that the prevention of an arms race in outer space would avert a
grave danger for international peace and security,
Recalling the primary role of the Conference on Disarmament on questions
relating to the prevention of an arms race in outer space in all its aspects, including
the weaponization of outer space and threats from capabilities on Earth, and the
relevant responsibilities of the First Committee of the General Assembly and the
Disarmament Commission,
Noting the rapid advances of technologies in space systems, the use of which
could have positive or negative effects on international security, and seek ing to
understand how States behave in the light of these developments,
Recognizing that efforts to prevent an arms race and to prevent conflict from
beginning in or extending into outer space must include consideration of the use of
all potential technologies and means, whether on Earth or in outer space,
Stressing that uses of these technologies and means for purposes inconsistent
with the objectives of maintaining international stability and security, including
against signals for operators and users and the terrestrial infrastructure supporting
space systems, can lead to the perception of threats and can have destabilizing effects
on peace and security on Earth, and that such threats already exist in outer space and
on Earth,
Recognizing the need for States to seek to avoid and mitigate the potential
impact on peace and security arising from accidents, miscommunication or a lack of
transparency, which could lead to miscalculations and the escalation of tensions and
contribute to an arms race,
Cognizant of the challenges of effectively verifying the capabilities of space
objects, which can have both civilian and military applications, interpreting their
behaviour or determining whether the systems will be used for purposes inconsistent
with the objectives of maintaining international security and stability, while
reaffirming that verification is one of the essential components of all arms control
instruments,
Noting the need for all States to work together to reduce threats to space systems
through the further development and implementation of norms, rules and principles
of responsible behaviours with the aim of maintaining a peaceful, safe, stable, secure
and sustainable outer space environment, which might, as appropriate and without
prejudice, contribute to further consideration of legally binding instruments in this
area,
Recognizing the importance of the full involvement and equal participation of
women and men in discussions on reducing space threats through responsible
behaviours and the need to assess the possible differentiated impacts of such threats,
1.
Affirms that all States must conduct their activities in the exploration and
use of outer space, including the Moon and other celestial bodies, in conformity with
2/3
20-16810