Date: 2025/09/17 (Wednesday)

Time: 15:00-16:00

Venue: Room B102

Speaker: Dr. Ulpia-Elena Botezatu

Language: English

Title: Global Governance of Space: The Role of UN COPUOS and New Pathways for Lunar Cooperation

Biography:

Dr. Ulpia-Elena Botezatu is the Chair of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) for the 2024–2026 period and Co-Chair of the Action Team on Lunar Activities Consultation (ATLAC). She represents Romania in various European and international space policy fora, with a focus on space security, sustainability, and resilience. Dr. Botezatu has authored and co-authored numerous scientific and policy publications on critical infrastructure, space governance, and cybersecurity, and frequently lectures on the intersection of space, law, and international cooperation. She is also actively engaged in initiatives to strengthen international collaboration in space exploration and to inspire the next generation through education and outreach.

Lecture Overview:

Her lecture will introduce the work of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN COPUOS), focusing on its role as the primary multilateral platform for international space governance. Particular emphasis will be placed on the Action Team on Lunar Activities Consultation (ATLAC), which she co-chair. She will outline its objectives, the inclusive consultation process, and the main international views that have emerged so far. The lecture will also highlight ongoing debates and future priorities in lunar governance, including transparency, benefit sharing, and trust-building among space actors.