Topic:
Country: Gabon
Delegate Name: Reem Omran
Committee: Disarmament & International Security Committee (DISEC)
Topic: Militarization of Outer Space
Country: Gabon
Delegate: Reem Omran, Forest Hills Northern High School
The Republic of Gabon recognizes the critical importance of space and its positive impact on human users. Gabon’s participation in international affairs is governed by United Nations norms. Thus, Gabon argues that space can only be used peacefully and not violently. Military use raises concerns about potential problems with international security, stability, and sustainable development by other states. Gabon seeks ways to prevent the arms race and firmly believes in having common standards to ensure their peaceful implementation.
Gabon recognizes the Outer Space Treaty of 1967 and the historical context of space exploration through treaties that affected the management of outer space activities The use of nuclear weapons or other highly destructive weapons in cycles or rotations of the treaty in the 19th century clearly follows. Gabon continues to support the importance of adhering to the principles established by this treaty and calls on all parties to adhere to its delivery.
Gabon supports the global effort for the peaceful use of outer space and contributes to the growth of space law through the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Use of Outer Space (COPUOS). In the past years, space faring and space emerging countries in Africa have considered it necessary to sign or ratify space related laws, notwithstanding the lack of technological capacity to fully engage in space related activities
Despite the existence of existing international agreements, Gabon acknowledges the emerging challenges and concerns associated with the militarization of outer space. Developments such as the introduction of anti-satellite weapons, the militarization of space facilities and the possibility of escalating conflict are seen as areas of concern Gabon is very concerned about the risks and impact of debris it can have on the long-term sustainability of space activities.
As a nation of growing space technology, Gabon is committed to the peaceful use of space. Gabon emphasizes the need for transparency in space activities, encourages international cooperation in space exploration, research and technological development and commits to settle disputes over space activities through diplomatic channels about the peaceful.
Finally, Gabon reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the peaceful use of space and calls on the international community to take concrete measures to prevent the deployment of troops in this vital area. Gabon actively supports international efforts to address new challenges within the United Nations and seeks common solutions that prioritize the interests of all countries. By promoting responsible actions and cooperation in space activities, the international community can preserve shared space heritage for present and future generations. Gabon is ready for dialogue and constructive cooperation to achieve common goals.
Works Cited
“UNITED STATES SAYS DISCUSSING MERITS of TREATIES to PREVENT “WEAPONIZATION” of OUTER SPACE “POINTLESS”, as FIRST COMMITTEE CONTINUES THEMATIC DEBATES | UN Press.” Press.un.org, press.un.org/en/2007/gadis3349.doc.htm. Accessed 21 Nov. 2023.
spacewatch.global/2020/08/spacewatchgl-opinion-african-states-and-international-space-treaties/.
Africa, Space in. “AGEOS Is Driving the Development of Gabon’s National Space Policy and It’s First Satellite.” Space in Africa, 28 Aug. 2020, africanews.space/ageos-is-driving-the-development-of-gabons-national-space-policy-and-its-first-satellite/. Accessed 21 Nov. 2023.
