The College of Law – University of Baghdad discussed a Master’s thesis entitled

“Reconnaissance and Espionage in International Space Law”

by post graduate student Zaman Jabbar Atwan, from the Department of International Law.

The discussion took place on Sunday, June 1, 2025, in the Model Court Hall at the college.

The examination committee consisted of the following members:

  1. Prof. Dr. Hadi Naeem Al-Maliki – Chair
  2. Asst. Prof. Dr. Osama Najm Youssef – Member
  3. Asst. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Salem Abd – Member
  4. Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Khalil Jaafar – Member and Supervisor

The thesis aimed to shed light on the legal framework governing the use of outer space for reconnaissance and espionage purposes. It explored the legality of such activities carried out via satellites under international space law and examined the legal responsibilities of states engaged in these practices. The study also highlighted the legislative shortcomings and legal gaps surrounding this critical domain.

The thesis consisted of three chapters:

  • Chapter One addressed the conceptual framework of space-based reconnaissance and espionage.
  • Chapter Two focused on the legal regulation of airspace and outer space and the legal classification of reconnaissance and espionage.
  • Chapter Three examined international responsibility for reconnaissance and espionage activities and the means to combat them.

The thesis concluded with several key recommendations, including:

  1. The need to reconsider current international space treaties and to develop new protocols or agreements that provide clear regulation on space-based reconnaissance and espionage.
  2. The importance of enhancing international cooperation to establish an independent international monitoring mechanism for space reconnaissance activities, with transparent standards that define the boundaries of legality.

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