I was honored to participate in the 2nd Conference on Earth–Space Sustainability: Law, Stewardship, Equity held at Leiden University. This prestigious international event brought together scholars, legal experts, and policymakers from around the world to discuss key issues related to space sustainability, governance, and the role of international law in shaping the future of outer space. Leiden University is widely recognized as one of Europe’s most prestigious academic institutions, with a long tradition of intellectual excellence and global influence. The university has been associated with some of the most influential thinkers in history, including Hugo Grotius, widely regarded as a founding figure of international law, as well as philosophers such as René Descartes and Baruch Spinoza, whose ideas shaped modern European thought. The university has also hosted renowned scientists, most notably Albert Einstein, who served as a visiting professor and collaborated with scholars in Leiden. In addition, distinguished global leaders such as Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela were awarded honorary doctorates, reflecting the university’s engagement with figures who have profoundly influenced international politics, peace, and human rights. These connections, together with Leiden’s leading role in international law and its growing prominence in space law and outer space governance research, reinforce its position as a key academic hub for addressing complex global challenges.
It was a great privilege to contribute to this conference by delivering lectures in the field of international space law, focusing on the topic The Impact of Space Militarization on Global Peace and Political Stability. My presentations addressed contemporary challenges related to the militarization of outer space, including the growing competition among major powers, the development of military space capabilities, and the broader implications of these trends for global security and political stability. Particular attention was given to the importance of strengthening international legal frameworks and norms aimed at ensuring the peaceful use of outer space and preventing potential destabilization.
The presentations also explored broader questions of space governance and sustainability, including the responsible use of space resources, the protection of the orbital environment, and the importance of international cooperation. In this context, I emphasized the critical role of law in shaping the future of outer space not only as a regulatory mechanism, but also as a foundation for equity, transparency, and long-term sustainability of space activities.
The conference provided an excellent opportunity for engaging discussions and the exchange of ideas with leading experts in international law, space policy, and security studies. These conversations highlighted the increasing relevance of addressing space militarization within broader debates on global peace, security, and sustainable development.
Participating in this event represents an important step in further research on the relationship between international space law, security, and global political stability, while also reinforcing the importance of academic contributions to the development of responsible and sustainable space governance.