Thailand appointed chair of UN space science subcommittee

2026-02-03 - 06:46

VIENNA — Thailand has been appointed chair of the United Nations’ Scientific and Technical Subcommittee (STSC) for 2026, marking a major step in the country’s role in shaping global space governance. The appointment was confirmed on 2 February at the UN headquarters in Vienna, under the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN COPUOS), the UN’s highest forum for setting direction and governance on space activities. Dr. Pakorn Apaphant, executive director of the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, was named chair of the STSC. He will preside over meetings and guide discussions amid growing geopolitical challenges in multilateral space cooperation. Dr. Pakorn said the appointment was an honour for Thailand, noting that UN COPUOS is the UN’s main mechanism for overseeing global space activities. The committee operates through two key subcommittees — the Legal Subcommittee and the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee — with the STSC serving as the core technical forum. Key issues under the STSC include space debris, space weather, the long-term sustainability of outer space activities and space traffic management, which form the basis for future international guidelines and cooperative frameworks. Dr. Pakorn said building consensus remained a major challenge due to differences in national capabilities, expertise and interests among member states. As chair, he said the role required not only technical knowledge but also diplomacy, negotiation and compromise to ensure balanced and constructive progress. Thailand’s selection reflects confidence from the international community, he said. Of the 110 UN COPUOS member states, only 14 countries have previously chaired the STSC, making Thailand the 15th to hold the position. He said the role would help raise Thailand’s profile in global space affairs, showcase the country’s technological capabilities and open opportunities for future cooperation and growth in the space economy. It also sets an example for other countries, particularly in Southeast Asia, to play a greater role on the global stage. Dr. Pakorn added that the appointment could inspire Thai youth by highlighting opportunities in STEM and space sciences, helping to build skilled human resources for long-term national development. GISTDA will work closely with Thailand’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Vienna and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate with member states, maintain diplomatic neutrality and act as a bridge to promote sustainable global cooperation in space.