Professor Rafiq Akram, Director at Morocco’s RCSSR, Appointed Chair of COPUOS
During the 68th session of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), Professor Rafiq Akram, Director at Morocco’s Royal Centre for Space Studies and Research(RCSSR), was appointed as the new Chair of the Committee. In his new role, Professor Akram will oversee the Committee’s work in promoting international cooperation in the peaceful use of outer space, supporting UN space initiatives, advancing research efforts, and guiding discussions on legal matters related to space exploration. The convening is being held in Vienna, Austria, from June 25 to July 2, 2025.
During the session, Professor Rafiq Akram welcomed delegates from 104 Member States, 56 Permanent Observers, and heads of space agencies from around the world. Also in attendance were African nations pursuing membership, among them Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda. The newly formed African Space Agency was also present, signalling the continent’s deepening interest in contributing to international space affairs and affirming its intention to be more actively involved in shaping future dialogue and cooperation in the peaceful use of outer space.
Additionally, key discussion points centred on strengthening global cooperation for space safety, the urgent need for an international space traffic coordination mechanism, and emerging governance frameworks for lunar activity. UNOOSA Director Aarti Holla-Maini highlighted the increasing risks of orbital congestion following a near-collision between satellites, calling for coordinated global action to address this issue. Other agenda items included responsible use of space resources, debris mitigation, capacity building for emerging space nations, and preparations for UNISPACE+50 in 2027.
Africa’s Engagement at COPUOS Leadership
Africa’s engagement in the leadership of COPUOS continues to strengthen, with Morocco chairing the 68th session following Egypt’s tenure in 2024, under the leadership of Professor Sherif Sedky. This marks the second consecutive year an African country has held the position, reflecting the continent’s growing role in global space governance and its commitment to advancing peaceful and cooperative uses of outer space. Additionally, during the session, Morocco’s Permanent Mission in Vienna, in collaboration with UNOOSA, will host a side event titled “Celebrating African Space Development: Towards a Sustainable and Inclusive Global Space Sector.”