This article was originally published by The University of Washington School of Law.
As humanity pushes farther into space, effective diplomacy has become increasingly important. Rapid technological advances, expanding commercial activity and intensifying geopolitical rivalry are testing the international frameworks that govern space. Yet opportunities for meaningful dialogue among policymakers, lawyers, industry leaders and academics remain limited.
The University of Washington is helping fill that gap.
On November 6, leading experts from around the world will convene for the fourth annual Space Diplomacy Symposium. Co-sponsored by the Space Law, Data and Policy Program (SPACE LDP) and the Program on Strategy, Policy and Diplomacy Research (SPDR), the symposium draws upon the UW’s strength in law, policy and international affairs, as well Washington’s deep roots in the space industry. Participants will examine how diplomacy can help governments, businesses and researchers navigate an increasingly crowded and contested space environment.
Saadia Pekkanen, founder of the symposium, adjunct professor of law, and Job and Gertrud Tamaki Endowed Professor at the Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies, said the pace of change since the inaugural gathering in 2023 has been “breathtaking.”
“The issues we once regarded as theoretical have become practical diplomatic concerns,” Professor Pekkanen said. “When we get everyone together, we can ask: What can diplomacy do? Can diplomacy deliver on its peaceful promise in these trying times? The challenges are daunting, but the possibilities are limitless.”
Ahead of the symposium, UW Law spoke with Pekkanen about the symposium and the role of diplomacy in shaping the future of space.
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UW Law: What challenges and opportunities are shaping space diplomacy today, and why is this a particularly important moment?
Saadia Pekkanen (SP): There has never been a moment quite like this in space politics.
New developments such as military activities in orbit and planning infrastructure on the Moon raise fundamental questions about security, prosperity and governance beyond Earth. As competition grows, how can diplomacy help countries, companies and societies navigate competition, pursue opportunities and manage differences peacefully?
One encouraging example is the Artemis Accords. Now, as the U.S. is joined by 76 countries, they show that diplomacy can still build consensus and advance cooperation even amid geopolitical rivalry.
UW Law: What can space diplomacy accomplish that hard power cannot?
SP: Diplomacy and hard power are often presented as opposites, but in practice they work together to support stability and peace. They are, in that sense, two practical pillars that help sustain peace through thick and thin. Hard power can protect assets, deter adversaries and establish capabilities. But it takes diplomacy to communicate the significance of those capabilities, build trust and reconcile competing interests among countries.
UW Law: How does space diplomacy benefit the space industry, particularly Washington state’s growing space sector?
SP: Washington is a major hub of the global space economy, with more than 75 space companies and about 60 percent of all low-Earth-orbit satellites built in the state.
But commercial opportunities are increasingly shaped by international partnerships, regulations, security concerns and competition among national space programs. Diplomacy helps define that environment. The symposium gives Washington companies the opportunity to engage directly with policymakers, diplomats, researchers and industry leaders shaping the future of the space economy.
UW Law: What are you most excited about in this year’s program?
SP: It’s hard to choose just one thing, but I am particularly excited about our new Ambassadors Panel. We are inviting experienced diplomats and other seasoned practitioners to reflect on what they have heard and what diplomatic practice can contribute. Their insights will help connect the symposium’s ideas to the realities of policymaking and international engagement.
UW Law: What are your aspirations for this year’s symposium and for its long-term future?
SP: My hope is for the symposium to become a lasting international platform for dialogue, collaboration and problem-solving.
We want to connect people across sectors, spark new partnerships and ideas, and help shape practical approaches to the governance challenges emerging in space. By bringing these conversations to Seattle, we hope to strengthen its role as a global hub where innovation, strategy and diplomacy come together to support the peaceful and sustainable use of space.