27 European Union States Pledge to Avoid Destructive Anti-Satellite Tests

In a significant step towards ensuring space security and stability, the 27 member states of the European Union (EU) have jointly pledged not to engage in destructive direct-ascent anti-satellite (ASAT) tests. This commitment, aimed at reducing the generation of space debris and preventing potential damage to the outer space environment, was included in a "joint contribution" submitted by the EU to the United Nations Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on Reducing Space Threats.

The document which outlines various measures to address space threats inclduing the practice of anti-satellite testing is due to be discussed at the upcoming fourth and final session of the OEWG starting on August 28 in Geneva.

The EU's commitment states, "The Member States of the European Union commit not to conduct destructive direct-ascent anti-satellite missile tests."

This pledge comes as a response to growing concerns about the proliferation of space debris resulting from ASAT tests and follows the lead of several countries, including the United States, which declared its intent to refrain from such tests in April 2022.

The move came after a Russian ASAT test resulted in the fragmentation of a defunct satellite into nearly 1,800 tracked debris pieces. Subsequently, 12 nations, including Austria, France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands from the EU, joined the U.S. initiative.

A United Nations General Assembly resolution supporting a similar ban received overwhelming support from 155 countries in December of 2022

The EU's commitment reflects a shared sense of urgency among member states to safeguard the outer space environment and prevent an arms race in space. The joint contribution emphasized the potential irreversible impacts of destructive ASAT systems and positioned the commitment as a crucial first step towards ensuring responsible behavior in outer space.

While the commitment represents a unified stance by the EU member states, it does not apply to the European Union as an entity. 

"This is not a commitment by the EU as this potential behavior would fall outside of the competences of the EU." - Peter Stano, EU Spokesman

The upcoming OEWG session is anticipated to finalize recommended measures addressing various space-related concerns. The EU's contribution includes support for multiple norms of behavior, covering areas such as the prevention of intentional activities leading to space debris and transparency in space activities.

Despite the progress made with commitments from various nations, some observers remain skeptical about the OEWG's ability to reach a consensus on substantial recommendations. A separate document submitted by Russia proposed endorsing a legally binding treaty to prevent the placement of weapons in space, a proposal that has faced opposition from Western nations, including the United States.

As discussions unfold at the final OEWG session, the global community will be closely watching for further developments in efforts to ensure the responsible and sustainable use of outer space