ENHANCING THE EUROPEAN IDENTITY IN MATTERS OF SPACE AND SECURITY

摘要

Europe has become aware of the link between space and security. National efforts in this domain have been complemented by European ones like the European Union's Galileo and GMES projects or the Space Situational Awareness initiative by the European Space Agency. Besides from getting active in the technical implementation of relevant projects, Europe has also started to take a stance in associated political questions. The draft Code of Conduct for activities in outer space approved by the Council of the European Union in December 2008 is a marked example. Europe is thus starting to exhibit a distinct and specific identity in matters of space and security. This identity comprises certain values, traits and paths of action. The values are evidenced by basic documents like the Treaty of Maastricht or the European Security Strategy. The traits are set by specific European features like split actorship or the multi-level institutional architecture. The paths of action are the element that remains to be defined and that will allow to shape and enhance a European Space Security Identity. The next steps to be taken by Europe will thus be important not only in regard to their external impacts, but also in regard to the European appearance as such.