ADVANCING DIALOGUE FOR THE EXPANDING CONSTELLATION OF GLOBAL ACTORS
MERIDIAN SPACE DIPLOMACY FORUM 2024
OVERVIEW
Solutions to many of the most complex challenges of our day lie beyond Earth's atmosphere, which now appears closer than ever. Human ingenuity and technological innovation have democratized space resulting in the meteoric rise in national government programs and new commercial enterprises. Space exploration and scientific breakthroughs are rocketing, while a burgeoning space industry offers astronomical economic growth and workforce development opportunities globally. However, increased competition and congestion also raises the risk of conflict in space.
Diplomacy is paramount to accelerate international cooperation among these stakeholders and modernize international regulations and norms of responsible behavior to maintain peace and enable us to reach our collective potential in space.
Held in-person on Meridian’s historic Washington, DC campus, the program will feature remarks from key decisionmakers, in-depth panel discussions, workshops, and networking.
AUDIENCE
The Meridian Space Diplomacy Forum brings together this growing constellation of - new and old, government and commercial - global space actors to explore avenues for cooperation and coordination through traditional and contemporary principles of diplomacy. University students and other aspiring space diplomats will join to learn more about the biggest contemporary themes in space and to forge relations leading to a career in international space endeavors.
THEMES
Modern Space Governance and the Artemis Accords
Cosmic Cooperation: Space Education and Workforce Development Partnerships
A.I.stronomical Advancement: A.I. as the Great Space Enabler
Orbiting Order: How Developing Norms Can Accelerate Space Commercialization
Moonshots: The New Space Economy for Emerging Spacefaring Nations
Tuesday, April 30, 2024 | 11:00 AM - 5:30 PM
The main event of the program will gather U.S. and international government officials with comprehensive and nascent space programs alike alongside space economy start-ups and longtime commercial enterprises. Themes will be examined through one-hour Solution Sessions comprised of a featured speaker and panel discussion.
DIPLOMACY FORUM
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Lunch and Learn: Space Diplomacy 101
Tuesday, April 30, 2024
This one-hour primer led by a space policy expert will provide attendees with foundational knowledge on space diplomacy over lunch. The Outer Space Treaty of 1967, Artemis Accords, and China’s International Lunar Research Station project will be among the areas covered. -
Careers in Science and International Affairs Networking Reception
Tuesday, April 30, 2024 | Evening
As part of our DiplomacyRISE initiative, Meridian hosts an annual careers in international affairs networking reception to engage the next generation of global affairs professionals with current international relations practitioners. This year’s program will emphasize international affairs opportunities for individuals with STEM backgrounds.
2024 Confirmed Speakers
The Honorable Pete Buttigieg answers a question about commercial space regulations and what the U.S. Department of Transportation is doing to prepare for the future during his recent visit to Meridian International Center.
Past Highlights
American success and alliances worldwide are intrinsically linked to the policies and actions undertaken within the United States. Recognizing this connection, there is a growing need to expand the responsibility for international affairs beyond Washington and the federal government.
As cities and states emerge as influential global actors in diplomacy, their evolving impact on various areas, including international trade, business development, climate change migration, and global health, becomes increasingly apparent.
Our All Diplomacy is Local - Strengthing City and State Statecraft report details the takeaways from a multitude of Meridian's programming in this space.
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements in a globalized, interconnected world, the exploration and use of space has become increasingly prominent. Both nations and private entities alike are investing significantly in space exploration missions, satellite deployments, and advancements in space technology. This heightened focus on space activities not only fosters new scientific discoveries and expands our understanding of the universe, but also presents new opportunities for international collaboration, commercial ventures, and the potential for human settlement beyond Earth. Within this dynamic landscape, the significance of space diplomacy has become increasingly apparent, as fostering it is crucial for ensuring peaceful cooperation, preventing conflicts, and collectively addressing complex issues that transcend national boundaries.
On January 11, 2024, in partnership with USTelecom, Meridian hosted Chirag Parikh, Deputy Assistant to the President and Executive Secretary of the National Space Council at the White House, for an Insights@Meridian discussion moderated by Natalie Jones, Executive Vice President, Meridian on U.S. space diplomacy and the future of space exploration. Jonathan Spalter, President & Chief Executive Officer of USTelecom, delivered introductory remarks.
