The Kingdom’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and Geneva, Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Khothaila, emphasized the importance of the issue of space debris and its potential implications for human rights. He noted that awareness of the sustainability of outer space is a crucial step toward ensuring the continued benefits of space technology in promoting human well-being.
In a speech delivered on behalf of 123 countries at the 57th session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC), he stated that the use of space has brought immense benefits to humanity, enhancing global communications, weather forecasting, and disaster management.
He indicated that these developments play a critical role in protecting fundamental human rights. He also pointed out that space debris poses significant risks to the infrastructure that facilitates these operations, which could hinder our ability to protect and promote these rights.
The Saudi permanent representative highlighted the challenges posed by space debris and i
ts direct impact on several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Goal 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure and Goal 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities. Moreover, he stressed the importance of effective space debris management for sustainable development, ensuring continued access to critical technologies that support weather monitoring, disaster response, and urban planning.
The UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) also affirmed that managing space debris is essential for the safety and governance of outer space operations. They emphasized its significance for international security, environmental protection, and satellite services, which contribute to human rights and development.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
