Model COPOUS'23
SGAC-ECSL
25-27 October 2023, European Space Agency, Paris
In collaboration with the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC), and with the participation of multiple experts from the United Nations, the ECSL organized the second edition of a Model Session of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN COPUOS). Within the model simulation, students and young professionals represented their assigned State and promoted their State's political or economical interests, negotiated with other countries, and tried to shape the future of space law. The second edition of the event took place on 25-27 October 2023 in ESA's Headquarters in Paris, France.
European Space Agency, Paris
The young Republic of Türkiye’s commitment to space exploration dates back to its early years when the Turkish Aeronautical Society was established, inspired by Mustafa Kemal's vision of "the future is in the skies" in the 1930s. Building on this vision, Türkiye has set ambitious goals through the National Space Programme, led by President ErdoÄŸan, outlining ambitious goals for space exploration, promoting sustainable satellite production and space industry development. Turkiye, as an active member of UN COPUOS since 1977 and a signatory of all UN Space Treaties, extends its successful inclusive peace diplomacy to space, exemplified by hosting the 2026 International Space Conference in Antalya. It maintains transparency, sharing research and advocating for environmental preservation. With significant aerospace expenditure, Turkish industry contributes substantially to its growing economy, marked by successful public-private partnerships. Turkiye is calling for accountability and environmental responsibility of space operators, while raising public awareness through educational initiatives such as the world-acclaimed Teknofest aerospace festival.
In our capacity as the Turkish Youth, we proudly represented Türkiye at the Space Generation Advisory Council Youth Working Group, dedicated to furthering the noble strides made in aviation and space exploration, particularly in commemoration of the esteemed 100th anniversary of the Turkish Republic. Throughout the intensive three-day sessions, my esteemed colleague Mertcan ArslantaÅŸ and I meticulously analyzed the United Nations' propositions regarding the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. During these deliberations, we earnestly voiced the pertinent issues and concerns that we deemed essential for thoughtful consideration.
United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space
(UN COPUOS)
The Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) was set up by the General Assembly in 1959 to govern the exploration and use of space for the benefit of all humanity: for peace, security and development. The Committee was and is tasked with reviewing international cooperation in peaceful uses of outer space, studying space-related activities that could be undertaken by the United Nations, encouraging space research programmes, and studying legal problems arising from the exploration of outer space.
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As the head delegate of the Turkish delegation at the Model COPUOS, my primary objective was to actively engage in discussions about space law and adeptly represent the interests of Turkey at the council.
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TURKISH CENTURY SPEECH
On Behalf of the Delegation of Turkiye
Honorable Chair, distinguished delegates,
This year, with immense enthusiasm, we are celebrating the centenary of the Republic of Turkey. The establishment of the Republic in 1923 marked a resolute stride towards a future illuminated by our nation's ideals of independence, democracy, and development. The Republic of Turkey, built upon the principles of National Independence, stands as a magnificent testament to the spirit of unity and solidarity that led our struggle for independence to triumph. The founding date of the Republic, guided by the principles and reforms of the Visionary Kemal Atatürk, has been etched in history as a saga of the nation's capacity for progress and transformation.
As Turkey commemorates the 100th anniversary of The Republic and the 500th anniversary of our Foreign Affairs Organization, it also bears witness to the birth of Anatolian diplomacy. The signing of the 3300-year-old "Kadesh Treaty" on these lands, the first peace agreement in history, is the finest testament to this legacy. It is with this profound historical consciousness that Turkey has gifted the principle of "Peace at home, peace in the world" to world diplomacy and continues to progress in this direction.
In this auspicious period, Turkey is steadfast in fulfilling its responsibilities on the international stage. As a founding member of the United Nations, Turkey sees itself responsible for extending its successful endeavors in balance and peace diplomacy to the domain of utilizing deep space for peaceful purposes. In this context, Turkey will host the International Space Conference in 2026 in Antalya, the most comprehensive conference of its kind globally. Turkey advances its steps in the fields of science and technology within the framework of the ethos of "Develop Together, Achieve Together."
The centennial of our Republic signifies the dawn of new hopes and achievements for us. To construct a brighter future, we are determined to collaborate with other nations in establishing a global system that eradicates global injustices, addresses economic disparities, and fosters peace, stability, and prosperity. Our vision, as articulated by the esteemed President Erdogan, in the Turkish Century is to continue working tirelessly for a fairer world order. Our journey towards a future filled with hope, rather than despair, depends on the decisions we make today and the collaborations we engage in.
I thank you for your attention.
Européen Space Agency
Commencing with a dignified opening ceremony, we took the opportunity to articulate Turkey's steadfast commitment to international collaboration in the exploration and peaceful utilization of outer space. Throughout the sessions, our delegation participated wholeheartedly in debates, negotiations, and dialogues addressing a spectrum of space-related topics such as satellite technology, space debris mitigation, and the sustainable utilization of space resources.
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A paramount concern for our delegation lay in advocating for equitable access to space, emphasizing Turkey's dedication to fostering international partnerships in space research and facilitating technology transfer for the benefit of all nations, irrespective of their technological development.
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The matter of space debris emerged as a critical focus for our delegation. Given Turkey's active involvement in space activities, we underscored the significance of responsible space practices and underscored the need for global collaboration to prevent the exacerbation of the space debris challenge.
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In the spirit of constructive diplomacy, we collaborated closely with fellow delegations, working towards finding common ground and building consensus on various resolutions. Our interactions highlighted the nuances of international relations and the intricate nature of space law.
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As the Model COPUOS sessions drew to a close, we, alongside our fellow delegates, successfully adopted resolutions that encapsulated the collective efforts of all participating nations, including Turkey. The conclusion of the conference was marked by a sense of achievement, acknowledging the shared commitment to international cooperation in ensuring the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space.