As rapid technological progress reshapes global power dynamics in orbit, the PSIA Tech & Global Affairs Innovation Hub is pleased to announce the publication of its latest policy brief, “Space Governance amid Emerging Technological Challenges,” authored by experts from the French Center for Air and Space Strategic Studies (CESA): Dr. Jérôme Clech, Head of the Applied Air and Space Strategy Chair, Dr. Anne Maurin, and PhD candidate Pierre Vallée, member of the “Coordination” section.

In this brief, these three officiers and researchers trace the evolution of space governance from its Cold War foundations to today’s increasingly complex and hybrid ecosystem—one where incumbent powers and international organizations are now interacting with regional space agencies, private corporations, and emerging spacefaring nations. They highlight how the rapid expansion of mega‑constellations, renewed geopolitical competition, and the entry of new stakeholders challenge long‑standing balance of power and governance norms applied to extra-atmospheric activities.

They also show how the mismatch between accelerating technologies and slow‑moving international law creates growing pressure on existing governance mechanisms. From AI‑enabled space activities and nuclear propulsion to quantum communications and new laser equipment, disruptive technologies, combined with geopolitical and economic shifts, are transforming the strategic environment faster than regulatory frameworks are currently adapting.

The authors underline the necessity to update and consolidate governance models to better account for these trends and include new actors. For public actors, and especially European countries, they highlight the urgency of documenting dependencies and strengthening autonomy in critical services, while aligning strategies and industries to better navigate an increasingly competitive governance landscape.

The policy brief concludes with six strategic recommendations to reinforce the resilience and relevance of space governance in this shifting context:

• Adopt clear dependency indicators for space services
• Launch an international debate to overhaul space governance rules
• Strengthen Europe’s common strategic vision and industrial framework
• Ensure European programs remain competitive and offer alternatives within the global oligopoly 
• Base national governance models on three “concentric circles” of autonomy/dependence 
• Develop a doctrine adapted to New Space, fostering mutual understanding between private service providers and public users

Outlining with clarity the dynamics that shaped space governance over the past decades, this policy brief offers an essential resource for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers, and reveals the priorities they must address to define a future of space governance preserving its foundational principles of peaceful cooperation and free exploration use of outer space. 

Learn more by reading the full policy brief: Space Governance amid emerging technological challenges (PDF, 409Ko)