TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
THE CONTEXT: The United Nations Security Council recently witnessed the rejection of a draft resolution aimed at promoting the peaceful use of outer space and preventing an arms race beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
EXPLANATION:
- Russia’s veto, supported by China, underscores the challenges in reaching consensus on crucial issues related to space security.
Draft Resolution
- Introduced by Japan and the United States, the draft resolution called on all states, particularly those with significant space capabilities, to actively contribute to the peaceful utilization of outer space.
- It aimed to prevent the militarization of space and uphold existing treaties to safeguard international peace and security while fostering cooperation in space exploration.
- The draft resolution faced opposition from Russia, resulting in its rejection by a vote of 13 in favor to one against, with one abstention from China.
- Despite overwhelming support from the majority of Security Council members, Russia’s veto prevented the resolution from passing.
Amendment Proposed by China and Russia
- China and Russia proposed an amendment to the draft resolution, emphasizing urgent measures to prevent the placement of weapons in outer space and the use of force targeting celestial bodies.
- The amendment sought to establish legally binding multilateral agreements to ensure the peaceful exploration and utilization of outer space.
Vote on the Amendment
- The proposed amendment failed to garner the necessary support, with seven members voting in favor, seven against, and one abstention.
- The inability to secure the required nine votes for adoption highlights the contentious nature of discussions surrounding space security and arms control.
Implications and Challenges
- Russia’s veto reflects divergent perspectives among Security Council members regarding the militarization of space and the regulation of space-based activities.
- The lack of consensus poses challenges to addressing emerging threats to space security, including the proliferation of anti-satellite weapons and the potential for conflict in orbit.
- The failure to pass the resolution underscores the need for continued diplomatic efforts to promote responsible behavior in outer space and prevent destabilizing actions that could escalate into conflict.
United Nations Security Council (UNSC):
- The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the principal organs of the United Nations (UN), established to maintain international peace and security.
- It plays a critical role in addressing global conflicts, crises, and threats to international peace.
- Composition:The UNSC is composed of 15 member states, with five permanent members (P5) and ten non-permanent members. The P5, (United States, Russia, China, France & UK) also known as the “Great Powers,” have veto power, which allows them to block any substantive resolution, making their decisions particularly influential.
- Membership Rotation:Non-permanent members are elected for two-year terms, with five seats opening up each year. This rotation ensures that different regions of the world are represented over time.
- Criteria for Membership:To become a member of the UNSC, a country must meet the following criteria:
- UN Membership:A nation must first be a member of the United Nations to be eligible for UNSC membership.
- Election:Non-permanent members are elected by the UN General Assembly through a two-thirds majority vote. The geographical distribution of seats is a key consideration, ensuring fair representation across regions.
- Rotation:Members serve two-year terms and can be re-elected, but there is a limit on consecutive terms. This rotation helps maintain diversity and a balance of interests.
Frameworks to Prevent Space Weaponization
- Outer Space Treaty -It was conceptualized by the United Nations in 1967. It emphasizes that the use of outer space should be peaceful and beneficial to all mankind. It claims that one nation cannot claim national sovereignty in outer space.
- Prevention of an outer space arms race-It stresses the use of space for peaceful purposes. Further, it calls for the importance of avoiding an arms race.
SOURCE: https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1148951
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