J U LY 2 0 2 4Space Security andSustainability: Why Is It
Essential for Small Island
Nations?
SARAH ERICKSON· A L M U D E N A A Z C Á R AT E O R T E G A

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1Acknowledgements
Support from UNIDIR core funders provides the foundation for all of the Institute’s activities. The
workshop titled “Space Security and Sustainability: Why is it Essential for Small Island Nations?” andthis subsequent report was made possible thanks to the financial support of Norway.
This workshop was jointly organised by UNIDIR, the Secure World Foundation and the Maldives Space
Research Organisation (MSRO).
The MSRO’s Madin Maseeh, Raushan Ali Firaq, and Tom Gardner; UNIDIR’s Almudena Azcárate
Ortega, Sarah Erickson, James Revill and Jessica Leung; and the Secure World Foundation’s Victoria
Samson, Seth Walton and Peter Martinez were all invaluable in the organisation of this workshop.
Photo credit for photographs in pages 7, 9, 13, 16, 19, 22, 25, 28 and 31: SINC 2024. Design and layout
by Trifecta Content Studio.
ABOUT UNIDIR AND THE SECURE WORLD FOUNDATIONThe United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is a voluntarily funded, autonomous
institute within the United Nations. One of the few policy institutes worldwide focusing on disarmament,
UNIDIR generates knowledge and promotes dialogue and action on disarmament and security. Basedin Geneva, UNIDIR assists the international community to develop the practical, innovative ideas
needed to find solutions to critical security problems.
Secure World Foundation is a private operating foundation dedicated to the secure and sustainable useof space for the benefit of Earth and all its peoples. It works with governments, industry, internationalorganisations and civil society to develop and promote ideas and action for international collaboration.
The foundation’s aim is to achieve secure, sustainable and peaceful uses of outer space.
CITATION
Sarah Erickson and Almudena Azcárate Ortega. 2024. “Space Security and Sustainability: Why is it
Essential for Small Island Nations?”, UNIDIR, Geneva. https://doi.org/10.37559/WMD/24/Space/03
NOTE
The designations employed and the presentation of the material in this publication do not imply theexpression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Secretariat of the United Nations concerning
the legal status of any country, territory, city or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitationof its frontiers or boundaries. The views expressed in the publication are the sole responsibility of theindividual authors. They do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the United Nations, UNIDIR,
its staff members or sponsors.

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2Acronyms & Abbreviations
CO PU O S

Peaceful Uses of Outer SpaceMSRO

Maldives Space Research Organisation

SDGS

Sustainable Development Goals

SIDS

Small Island Developing States

SINC

Space for Island Nations Conference

SWF

Secure World Foundation

U NIDIR

United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research

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3About the Authors
SARAH ERICKSON

Research Assistant for the Space Security
and WMD Programmes at UNIDIR.
She holds a dual master’s degree from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey andMoscow State Institute of International Relations in WMD Nonproliferation, Nuclear Policy and Global
Security. Her research focuses on space security, and the history and future development of national
space strategies. She has worked with the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, and received
the IAEA Marie-Sklodowska Curie Fellowship in 2021-2022, and a Fulbright Fellowship in 2019-2020.

ALMUDENA AZCÁRATE ORTEGA
Researcher for the Space Security and WMD
Programmes at UNIDIR.
She has published widely and briefed United Nations Member States on the topics of space security law
and policy and has presented her research in multiple fora. She has led UNIDIR’s participation in the OpenEnded Working Group on Reducing Space Threats through Norms, Rules and Principles of Responsible
Behaviour, established pursuant to UN General Assembly resolution 76/231. Prior to joining UNIDIR,
Almudena was a Research Assistant at Georgetown University Law Center, where she is currently adoctoral candidate. She holds an LL.M. in National Security Law from the same institution, where she
was the recipient of Georgetown’s Thomas Bradbury Chetwood, S.J. Prize for the most distinguishedacademic performance in the programme. She received her LL.B. from the University of Navarra, Spain.

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Table of Contents
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

2

ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS

3

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

4

TABLE OF CONTENTS

5INTRODUCTION

7PART I - THE IMPORTANCE OF OUTER SPACE FOR SMALL ISLAND NATIONS

8PART II - THREATS AND CHALLENGES TO SPACE SECURITY ANDSUSTAINABILITY: THE PERSPECTIVE OF SMALL ISLAND NATIONS

10PART III - THE ROLE OF SMALL ISLAND NATION STAKEHOLDERS IN
ACHIEVING SPACE SECURITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

CONCLUSION

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5Introduction
The rapid increase of space activities on the part of new actors, particularly those from industry, hasmade possible multiple services upon which humankind relies every day. Space technology contributes
to bridging inequalities between nations and peoples. Sustainability of the space environment greatly
contributes to peace and sustainability on Earth.
However, as space becomes more economically and strategically important, tensions between space
actors could present a significant threat to peace and security. Such tensions have prompted the further
development of counterspace capabilities by multiple States—also enabled by limitations in currently
applicable international law. Left unchecked, the increase in space assets and the proliferation ofcounterspace technologies endangers both the safety and security of outer space. As well, it creates
an unstable and unsustainable space environment that could lead to conflict. Such a conflict could
have catastrophic consequences for humankind, showcasing the close relationship between space
security and sustainability as it relates to space and Earth. In the face of such danger, the international
community has sought to establish solutions to ensure space remains a secure, peaceful andsustainable environment.
During the second Space for Island Nations Conference (SINC), the United Nations Institute for
Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) and Secure World Foundation (SWF) sponsored an open panel
where space security experts and other interested stakeholders explored the importance of space
security for island nations, discussed the current state of multilateral discussions on this topic, andstrived to identify what concerns specific to island nations exist about their continued access to anduse of space.1
Moreover, in coordination with the Maldives Space Research Organisation (MSRO), UNIDIR and SWF
also sponsored a closed, invitation-only workshop for government and other relevant stakeholders.
This workshop aimed to encourage the sharing of views on this topic, provide a forum for informal
discussion around current challenges to space security and stability, and explore the role that island
nations could play in fostering common understanding of space security.
To encourage a frank exchange of ideas, the workshop was a closed event for representatives of island
nations, convened under the Chatham House Rule where “participants are free to use the information
received, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker(s), nor that of any other participant,may be revealed”.
This document summarises key discussions and takeaways from the roundtable discussions that took
place in the workshop.

1

A short commentary summarizing the highlights of the open panel can be found here: Sarah Erickson and Almudena Azcárate
Ortega (2024). “Space Security and Sustainability: Why Is It Essential for Small Island Nations?”, UNIDIR, Geneva. https://unidir.org/space-security-and-sustainability-why-is-it-essential-for-small-island-nations/.

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6Part I - The Importance ofOuter Space for Small Island
Nations
Outer space is critical for humankind. All countries, irrespective of whether they are spacefaring or not,rely on space services on a daily basis. As such, ensuring peace and security in outer space is of theutmost importance. Part I of the workshop explored the value of space infrastructure and services forsmall island nations and the corresponding value of space security.

SPACE AND DEVELOPMENT GOALS FOR SMALL ISLAND NATIONSParticipants highlighted the essential developmental role that space technology provides for island
nations. It was stressed that space technology can be a critical enabler in achieving the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) and also in carrying out the development aspirations of small islands for the
next 10 years as outlined in the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS)—a Renewed Declaration
for Resilient Prosperity.2 For instance, space technology plays a role in a number of oceanic resourcesmanagement and preservation initiatives vital to the continued livelihood and prospective economic
growth of island nations. These initiatives include but are not limited to coral preservation efforts suchas early warning systems to detect coral bleaching; monitoring coastlines for coastal conservation;
monitoring oceanic pH and acidity levels; monitoring illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing; anddetecting oil spills. It was also stressed that global navigation satellite systems are central in supporting
oceanic and tourism industries, which make up a significant percentage of island nation economies.
Participants also discussed how Earth observation data assists in environmental disaster monitoring
and response, which is increasingly important due to the intensified vulnerabilities felt by small island
nations in the face of the growing climate crisis. Some participants pointed out the potential for spacetechnologies to alleviate connectivity and digital division issues faced by archipelagic nations. Increasing
connectivity across the islands would contribute to expanding access to medical specialists throughservices such as telehealth, improve social mobility, and increase access to education. In this regard,
it was emphasized that space technology has cross-sectoral applications in island nations. COVID-19
was given as an example of how space -enabled technology is used in the communication of medical
information and services as well as administering certain forms of medical assistance. Furthermore,
one speaker gave a specific example on the increased use of Earth observation for insurance loss anddamage assessments. In general, it was highlighted that space technology could act as a catalyst foreconomic growth and as an equalizer by further connecting island nations with each other and with the2

The Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS) – a Renewed Declaration for Resilient Prosperity, Fourth International
Conference on Small Island Developing States, April 11, 2024, https://sdgs.un.org/sites/default/files/2024-04/SIDS4%20-%20Co-Chairs%20FINAL.pdf.

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7rest of the world. However, to benefit from space-enabled technology and data, investment in humancapital and training needs to be strengthened, and reliable access to data is essential.

RESPECTING HERITAGE AND HISTORICAL SPACE APPLICATIONSAND NARRATIVES
Some participants pointed out the indigenous and historical value that space has for island nations.
One participant mentioned the use of astronomical navigation that many island nations had relied
upon, as well as indigenous methods of weather forecasting. It was proposed that such traditions andexperiences could be shared at the international level and be built upon in the future of island nations’space activities. Moreover, another participant highlighted that for effective public communication
on issues of outer space, political leaders would need to be aware of how outer space plays a rolein local religions and spiritualties. This awareness is crucial to help avoid public misperceptions on
governance initiatives and future policies. Another participant presented the view to the roundtable thatthe historical “space powers” had come to such power through a legacy of war and weapons testingthat has negatively impacted island nations, especially in the case of nuclear testing. Therefore, it
was emphasised that the multilateral community and historical space powers should not forget thislegacy when soliciting small island nations for political support and that it would be imperative for island
nations to keep abreast of how geopolitical conflicts could affect and play a role in their space activities.

THE NEED FOR A LOCALIZED APPROACH TO SPACE SECURITY
The concrete examples and case studies from the first panel set a tone for understanding the importanceof the space sector for island nations. With this context, it became apparent what island nations stood
to lose in a scenario of escalated outer space insecurity or conflict. This prompted candid discussions
on the importance of spreading awareness of the integrated role of space technologies in daily life to the
public. One speaker expressed how localized and indigenous-run tools could foster a more trusted andmutually understood message about the importance and utility of space-enabled technologies and data,
citing Digital Earth Pacific as one example.3 It was explained that, with increased general awareness,
State governments could begin including considerations of space security and sustainability in political
agendas. However, it was stressed that due to limited resources and an increased list of concerns andurgencies faced by island nations, issues of outer space security and sustainability would have to beholistically integrated and made to fit within existing priorities and local political agendas.

3

See https://www.spc.int/DigitalEarthPacific.

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8Part II - Threats andChallenges to Space
Security and Sustainability:
The Perspective of Small
Island Nations
One of the complexities of addressing space security issues is the lack of common understanding on
concepts of space security and the wide range of threat considerations across the globe. This session
discussed and identified some of the critical challenges for space security and sustainability faced fromthe perspective of small island nations. The objective was to shed light on what small island nations
consider priority threats to be addressed by multilateral processes and why they must be tackled.

UNDERSTANDING CHALLENGES AND ASYMMETRY OF
INFORMATIONThe roundtable discussed differentiating knowledge and experience levels that exist between
island nations themselves but also between island nations and other States. In order to address theasymmetry of experience, education, and information, some speakers pointed to the necessity ofcollaborative projects amongst island nations. It was emphasized that such collaborative projects,
whether through joint commercial operations or joint training exercises, could increase capacity while
maximizing resources. One participant spoke to the importance of having advanced information andtechnical understanding to ensure that future production or possession of space assets, such as
ground stations, are made more resilient against both security threats, such as cyberattacks, but also
against naturally occurring and environmental risks. Another participant highlighted the importance ofbetter understanding the responsibilities and reliability of chosen service providers. It was suggested
that in light of the number of space security threats, disseminating knowledge on such threats could
facilitate more informed and secure economic partnerships.

A COMPREHENSIVE IDEA OF SPACE SECURITY
Security concerns are understood in various ways by different regions and peoples. In the discussion
it was notable that participants presented a broad approach to security that was inclusive of issues
spanning from how climate change to neighbouring geopolitical conflicts shape a people’s security
concerns. It was explained that in order to incorporate multilateral concepts of space security into
an agenda for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), the concept of security would have to becomprehensive and inclusive of localized priorities and environmental security, as well as the idea of

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9community security. One participant spoke about the issue of space debris and suggested that throughcertain intentional actions, one actor with disregard to the space environment and its utilisation byothers could potentially deny the use of space to all indefinitely through the creation of space debris.
In light of this, the point was made that space security did not preclude environmental security, butrather that space sustainability overall was an important goal to pursue to ensure continued accessand benefit of space for all, and that space security was closely tied to the pursuit and achievement ofsustainability.

REACTING TO GEOPOLITICAL DISCUSSIONS
Many participants pointed to the need to respect the sovereignty of island nations in the context of
the use of space services. Participants also stated that further discussions should take place in order
to discover what unique threats small island nations face with regard to space. It was expressed thatSIDS should not expect proposals submitted to geopolitical forums where they do not have sufficient
representation to reflect their specific concerns or contexts. It was underscored that in order to avoid
such situations, and particularly in the face of space technology’s ever-increasing importance forsmall island nations, it is important that SIDS actively participate in multilateral debates related tospace security in order to effectively present their particular perspectives and assert their specificinterests. One participant spoke about the need to react to international discourse on space security
issues to help prevent island nations from being forced into a situation of picking sides in geopolitical
rivalries. Moreover, participants highlighted the potential of SIDS to help transform global discussions
surrounding space security to be inclusive of climate and environmental aspects.

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10Part III - The Role of Small
Island Nation Stakeholders
in Achieving Space Security
and Sustainability
Outer space is vastly different today than it was when space exploration first began. Space has morediverse stakeholders than ever before. Non-governmental stakeholders, including the commercial
industry, civil society and academia, can contribute and work with States to ensure space security
and sustainability. They can provide States with valuable insight that could aid in the optimizationof policymaking. Part III explored how small island nations and non-governmental entities can work
together to mitigate the threats and challenges to space security and sustainability.

BALANCING RISKS AND OPPORTUNITY IN FUTURE
GOVERNANCE EFFORTS
The roundtable discussed how small island nations were at different levels of development in andunderstanding of the space sector. One participant identified challenges around introducing space
security discourse to local governments. It was stressed that topics on space security should be
introduced in a manner that resonates with governments and not in a way that would cause unnecessary
fear nor hamper enthusiasm for future uptake in investment and technology use and development.
Participants largely agreed that there was a need to balance between presenting the benefits andpotential that space could bring to the daily lives of their peoples, while also understanding the risks
posed to such important assets. In this regard, participants explained that ‘sustainability’ is a key wordthat could be used, and that following a comprehensive approach with holistic language would be an
important part of future governance communications. One participant expressed concern over space
being subject to neo-colonialism and argued that small island nations should be empowered to ensure
the use and exploration of space to benefit all humankind without discrimination.

CONSIDERING A BOTTOM-UP APPROACH: THE ROLE OF THE
COMMERCIAL INDUSTRY AND CIVIL SOCIETY
Many participants explained that governments are no longer the predominant actors in space. Nongovernmental actors, primarily industry stakeholders, are driving technological innovation forward. It
was indicated that SIDS consistently advocate for the voices of non-governmental actors to be included
in political discourse. SIDS could continue pushing for this inclusivity regarding space security andsustainability. Some participants expressed that among certain SIDS, such as in the Caribbean and
the Maldives, it was non-governmental entities, such as civil society and industry, that had been thefirst to come together—before any form of government action—in order to foster discussions onspace-

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11related matters. The Maldives Space Research Organisation (MSRO) was highlighted as an example ofa non-governmental organization that is a leader in space matters in the Maldives, having contributed
to jumpstarting certain actions from the State through dialogue. In this sense, it was pointed out that
MSRO could in the future seek to be included in multilateral political discourse on space governance, forexample, by becoming an observer in processes such as the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer
Space (COPUOS) of the United Nations, or by participating in space security-related United Nations
open-ended working groups. Through such actions, small island nations could benefit from bottom-up
approaches where local non-governmental entities could initiate domestic governance efforts, foster
regional capacity-building and information-sharing, and increase representation and participation
at international fora on space governance. Furthermore, the roundtable discussed how, through theactive participation of academia and civil society from small island nations, these populations could
increase awareness on the benefits and potentials of space technology and data, as well as the need tokeep outer space safe, secure, and sustainable to guarantee continued access to such opportunities.

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12Conclusion
The roundtable discussion was a rich exchange of perspectives on space security, how it is related tosustainability—both in space and on Earth—and why it holds significant importance to small island
nations. It was acknowledged that space services and technologies are gaining an increasingly relevantrole in contributing towards the development aspirations of small islands, including in the fulfilment of
the SDGs. It was affirmed that space services play a critical role even for States that do not yet possess
domestic space technologies, and that the disruption of such services could have severely negative
consequences for all small island nations, thus highlighting the importance of engaging in space
security and sustainability related discussions at the domestic, regional and multilateral levels.
Although all small island nations, their institutions and citizens use space services in one way or another,
participants highlighted that the impact of these technologies can be greater with access to advanced
information and technical expertise. This access ensures that the space services chosen by a Stateare the most reliable for the desired purposes and enables better preparation to mitigate potential risks
or threats that could affect their use. A better understanding of the technology and its capabilities andlimitations can allow small island nations to better protect their interests, both in the establishment of
economic partnerships and when engaging in multilateral discussions on matters of space.
Participants indicated that multilateral space-related initiatives and proposals, particularly thoseon space security, need to consider and take into account the perspectives of small island nations.
Furthermore, the international community should not expect SIDS to accede to mechanisms that do
not take their specific priorities into consideration. Participants acknowledged that in order to avoid
this, small island nations must be active participants in space security debates.
Participants highlighted that, while space security and sustainability are important, for small island
nations these issues cannot be tackled as a stand-alone agenda item in their policies, and must instead
be considered in a holistic manner, within the context of existing priorities of these States that focus
on the sustainability of the Earth and its environment. The importance of non-governmental entities
of small island nations was also underscored, as these actors can foster regional capacity-building,information-sharing, as well as awareness-raising of SIDS’ priorities at the international level. This
contributes to increasing representation and participation at international fora on space governance.
Participants in the workshop proposed valuable points that highlighted the uniqueness and great
diversity of small island nations and their priorities with regard to space security and sustainability
concerns. Valuable ideas were proposed to facilitate the inclusion of these perspectives in space
security-related discussions at the multilateral level, ensuring that all can benefit from outer space
without discrimination and on the basis of equality.

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