In a geopolitical context of increasing power competition and intensification of threats to the EU and its Member States, EU leaders have identified space as a strategic domain in the Strategic Compass and have called for an EU Space Strategy for security and defence. The European Commission presented on 10 March such strategy aiming to enhancing the resilience and protection of space systems and services in the EU, responding to space threats, enhancing the use of space for security and defence and partnering for responsible behaviours in outer space.
The preparatory meeting between the rapporteur, the corapporteur and the president of the study group is scheduled for 31 March. The first study group meeting and an expert hearing are scheduled for 3 May and the second study group meeting on 31 May. The document will go to CCMI meeting on 22 June and to EESC plenary on 12-13 July.
Download — EESC opinion: EU space strategy for security and defence
The EESC welcomes the communication of the European Commission on a "Space Strategy for Europe" and endorses the proposed guidelines. The EESC encourages the Commission to continue on this path and to set its sights on even more ambitious horizons. The Committee emphasizes that space activities are nowadays part of everyday life of European citizens. It focuses on the crucial role of SMEs as well as on the education and public awareness raising as far as space activities are concerned.
Download — EESC opinion: Space Strategy for Europe (Communication)
