COPOUS
Agenda: Ensuring Equitable Access to Outer Space For All Nations.
COPUOS deals with issues related to the peaceful exploration and use of outer space. In MUN, delegates debate and draft resolutions on topics like space debris management, satellite regulation, space resource utilization, international cooperation in space research, and preventing the militarization of outer space. The committee promotes the peaceful use of space, develops international space law, and makes recommendations to the UN General Assembly.
👉 In MUN, this means debates, drafting resolutions, passing amendments, and voting—all focused on promoting the peaceful use of outer space, enhancing international cooperation, managing space debris, and ensuring space remains free of conflict.
Founded in 1959, COPUOS has become a key UN body addressing the peaceful uses of outer space, with 100+ member states working together to promote international cooperation, develop space law, and ensure space activities benefit all humankind.
The Chairperson calls the committee to order, takes roll call, and announces the agenda, usually related to the peaceful use, exploration, and regulation of outer space.
Each delegate, representing a country, delivers an opening statement presenting their nation’s views, policies, and priorities on the agenda.
Delegates are recognized by the Chair to speak. They highlight space-related challenges, discuss international cooperation, and propose solutions while responding to other countries’ perspectives.
Delegates engage informally to build alliances, negotiate, and collaborate on drafting working papers and resolutions focusing on peaceful space exploration and governance.
Draft resolutions are submitted to the Chair and introduced to the committee. Delegates debate their merits, propose amendments, and negotiate wording to ensure consensus.
After thorough discussion, the committee votes on amendments and final resolutions. Each country votes For, Against, or Abstain, with the majority determining the outcome.
The Chair announces the results of the voting, summarizes the key discussions, and officially adjourns the committee.