Holy See diplomat: outer-space technology should become a shared resource

October 22, 2015

As a UN committee discussed cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space, a Holy See diplomat praised satellite technology but expressed concern that technological benefits may “become yet another cause of increasing economic and social inequalities.”

These benefits “need to become a shared resource for the common good and contribute to sustainable development of the entire global community,” Archbishop Bernardito Auza said on October 19.

The prelate also expressed concern that satellites “could be manipulated or attacked to cause chaos or even catastrophic disasters … My delegation hopes that the development of an International Code of Conduct for Outer Space Activities will ensure a fairer and safer use of outer space.”

 

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Further information:

• Ricerca spaziale e benefici universali (L’Osservatore Romano, p. 2)
• Statement On Agenda Item 53: Cooperation In The Peaceful Uses Of Outer Space (Holy See Mission)