Space Security, Law, and Policy (SSLP)
Working Group
Purpose: The Why Behind Our Work
Centering women of color perspectives to create an outer space environment that reflects the values of unity, cooperation, and shared responsibility. We believe that by actively participating in global dialogue surrounding civil and military space use, we can advance safe, sustainable, ethical, and equitable use of space.
Scope: Defining our Focus
We recognize the importance of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, which explicitly prohibits the deployment of weapons of mass destruction and military activities in space. However, since the advancements in conventional weaponry there is a need for new agreements that address the security challenges of the 21st century. A cornerstone of our mission is to advance a message of peace and global inclusion in space and actively oppose any militarization efforts.
Space, often referred to as the "final frontier," holds immense potential for humanity. It presents an unprecedented opportunity to leverage the dynamic braintrust of WCAPS and engage as stakeholders in promoting earth science, space science, and the use of space based technology and tools to address and combat the impacts of climate change, including issues related to food security, migration, disaster management, natural resource scarcity, etc .
We are committed to working with the private sector and commercial space actors to promote innovation, build strong partnerships, and advocate for safe and sustainable growth that includes diverse capabilities, skills and people. We also believe in promoting economic opportunities in the space sector for new and non-traditional space leaders.
By collaborating with diverse stakeholders we are committed to promoting peace, equity, and inclusion in the vast expanse of space, with a focus on ensuring the education pipeline and workforce for space careers is accessible to all, irrespective of gender, race, ethnicity, or background. In this regard, we also seek to partner with strategic African countries that are actively growing space programs.
Goals/Objectives: Targeted Outcomes
Space Diplomacy
Mitigating the Escalation of Space Militarization
Advancing Space For Earth
Promoting Commercial Space Growth and Global Partnerships
Developing Equitable Space Workforce
Get Involved
Members are expected to bring a proactive and solution-oriented mindset. Our Working Group is dedicated to driving innovation and shaping the future of space policy. We hold monthly meetings, with additional sessions as needed, and organize both in-person and virtual events. We welcome seasoned experts and emerging NEXT Gen voices who are passionate and curious about advancing the dialogue in space policy.
Latest Developments
Newly released white paper: Beyond STEM: Strengthening U.S. Strategic Advantage through a Space Security Law and Policy Framework for a 21st-Century Workforce. Stay tuned for our upcoming event in collaboration with the Secure World Foundation—details coming soon!