Discussion focused on the implementation of agreed-upon TCBMs such as the 2013 GGE on TCBMs and the 2023 UN Disarmament Commission’s Recommendations on the Implementation of TCBMs. Other examples of possible TCBMs can be found in treaties such as the OST (Article XI) and the Registration Convention. For States not party to the Registration Convention, UNGA resolution 1721 B (XVI) provides a registration process for their space objects. The UN Office for Outer Space Affairs maintains a National Space Objects Register, and another platform which serves TCBM functions is the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research’s Space Security Portal. Finally, the UNGA’s Principles Relating to Remote Sensing and the Principles Relevant to the Use of Nuclear Power Sources in Outer Space contain TCBM relevant provisions.
The information shared through TCBMs has a relational, inter-State dynamic which affects how they are received and perceived. Because transparency plays a role in deterrence, TCBMs could be ‘weaponized’ if undertaken without confidence building. For instance, without careful messaging, the publication of space security doctrines and policies in the interest of transparency may be misconstrued to be aggressive or threatening. While unilateral transmissions of information can be helpful (e.g. the sharing of space situational awareness data), bilateral notifications do not always lead to dialogue. Sustained communication and further exchanges are required for the full implementation of TCBMs.
In this context, the Hague Code of Conduct was repeatedly raised as an example of a successful TCBM which has almost been universalized, and its annual declaration provides an important opportunity to report on implementation. Along similar lines, participants considered that dedicated platforms for the implementation of TCBMs could prove to be valuable. None currently exist.
Participants suggested that a network of national points of contact, either for satellite operators or to discuss space security issues, could be a very useful TCBM. New platforms could take the form of public databases which support, encourage collaboration, build capacity, and review and report on the implementation of TCBMs, either periodically or annually. As regular dialogue is paramount, inspiration could be drawn from the UN Register on Conventional Arms which has a regular group of governmental experts which meet for a comprehensive review every three years. TCBMs may also be developed and implemented through regional and sub-regional mechanisms.
The idea was raised that new platforms or processes may be able to divide time between Geneva and Vienna to serve as a bridge between space security and safety. Discussions revealed that the technical knowledge of Vienna based organizations such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) are relevant to improving space security and moving forward on PAROS. The work of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space and its two subcommittees overlaps with space security: for example, across rendezvous and proximity operations, space debris and the Long-Term Sustainability (LTS) Guidelines.
To illustrate the complementary nature of Geneva and Vienna in space security and space safety, work on the 2013 GGE on TCBMs took place at the same time as COPUOS worked on the LTS Guidelines. These processes informed each other; the report of the GGE on TCBMs acknowledges the utility of the LTS Guidelines within a security context, and para 13 of the LTS Guidelines states that the guidelines “could be considered as potential transparency and confidence-building measures”.
The Report of the Secretary-General on TCBMs in Outer Space, document A/72/65, reviewed relevant UN entities for the implementation of TCBMs. It also contains proposals on how UN entities may provide further assistance. Examples include facilitating information exchanges and risk reduction notifications.
Beyond multilateral organisations, the role of other non-State actors featured prominently in the discussion. It was stated that industry supports TCBMs and is developing responsible practices, as indicated by CONFERS (Consortium for Execution of Rendezvous and Servicing Operations), an industry-led organisation which has produced a lexicon of terms and definitions for rendezvous and proximity operations, on-orbit servicing missions, and in-space assembly, servicing and manufacturing. Such initiatives may be helpful in facilitating clearer dialogue between technical and diplomatic spheres.