The Multilateralism of Space Governance: Assessing the Legal Framework for Potential Future Space Resource Activities

Renewed global interest has emerged regarding the possible benefits that might be
derived from the future exploration, exploitation, and utilization of the natural resources
of the Moon and other celestial bodies. While such ≫space resource activities≪
may give rise to such benefits, there are also some significant risks and challenges to
be considered. Increasingly, the international community has come to recognise that
governance mechanisms must be developed to ensure that any future space resources
activities are to be undertaken in a manner that is safe and sustainable and minimises
the risk of misunderstandings, miscalculations, and conflicts.

In 2021, the Legal Subcommittee of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful
Uses of Outer Space established a ≫Working Group on Legal Aspects of Space
Resource Activities≪ to further a multilateral process to examine and assess the legal
framework that would be appropriate for any future space resource activities. The
Working Group has made steady progress in accordance with its mandate and the
Member States have been highly supportive of the process. This chapter will provide
an update of the work of the Working Group and highlight the various issues identified
by Member States