Artemis Accords and the Developing Countries: A Catalyst for Degenerative Equality and Mutual Benefit of Space/Moon Resources

Abstract

It would be safe to state that the Outer Space Treaty and the Moon Agreement are filled with relatable and encompassing interest-based provisions. The Principles of res communis and Common Heritage make sense at the combined reading of Art.4, 6 (2), 7 (b & d) & 8 of the Moon Agreement and Art.I of the Outer Space Treaty. This chapter delves into the intention of the world community for International space laws, to which equality and mutual benefit of resources exploited in the pristine environment are paramount irrespective of the level of development economically, scientifically and technologically. The chapter highlights the fact that the interest of mankind taken into consideration in the exploration and exploitation of both space and moon resources accounts for the membership of both Laws. Hence, parties embark on exploitation with the mindset that such activities will and must benefit not only it but also developing countries since space exploration involves huge financial capability. The chapter also discusses international efforts at achieving equality and mutual benefit of space/moon resources, while juxtaposing it with the act of the United States, spare heading another set of Principles for Cooperation in the Civil Exploration and Use of the Moon, Mars, Comets and Asteroid for Peaceful Purposes known as the Artemis Accords. The Chapter will address the implications of the provision of the Artemis Accords on the existing International provision on equal benefits of resources, in other words, are developing countries or mankind considered in the making of the Artemis Accords?