Adopted within the framework of IAC 2026, hosted by Türkiye, the “Antalya Declaration on Space for Peace” received the support of 32 ministers, members of parliament and heads of space agencies from 21 countries, reflecting a shared determination to ensure a peaceful, safe and sustainable future for space.
Held in Antalya from 5 to 9 October 2026, the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026) provided a platform for international dialogue on the future of space alongside scientific and technological developments. Within the framework of the Congress, the “Antalya Declaration on Space for Peace” was adopted at the Meeting of Ministers and Parliamentarians organised by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) on 4 October.
Bringing together ministers, members of parliament and heads of space agencies from various countries, the meeting addressed the role of space technologies in societal resilience and climate action, governance approaches to ensuring safe and sustainable space activities, and the development of entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems in the space sector.
MINISTER KACIR: “A STRONG EXPRESSION OF OUR DETERMINATION TO SHAPE THE FUTURE OF SPACE THROUGH SHARED RESPONSIBILITY”
Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır highlighted Türkiye’s leading role in the Declaration, stating:
“To preserve space as a domain of peace and cooperation and ensure that all countries benefit fairly from the opportunities it offers, Türkiye took the lead on the ‘Antalya Declaration on Space for Peace’ at the 16th Meeting of Ministers and Parliamentarians, which we held yesterday. A first in the history of the Congress, this Declaration has already received the support of 32 ministers, parliamentarians and representatives of space organisations from 21 countries. It is a strong expression of our determination to shape the future of space through shared responsibility.”
PEACE, RESPONSIBILITY AND COOPERATION FOR THE FUTURE OF SPACE
The Declaration affirms the use of outer space for the benefit of all humankind and continued adherence to the fundamental principles of international space law. Emphasising that space must remain a domain of peace, it calls for the avoidance of actions that could escalate tensions, fuel conflict or undermine international cooperation.
The Declaration also prioritises mitigating space debris, addressing the risks arising from orbital congestion and ensuring the long-term sustainability of space activities. It underscores the importance of maintaining dialogue among governments, space agencies, industry, academia and civil society, even during periods of political tension.
FAIR ACCESS TO THE BENEFITS OF SPACE TECHNOLOGIES
The Declaration seeks to enhance the contribution of space technologies to sustainable development, environmental protection, climate action, disaster risk reduction and humanitarian assistance.
Building capacity in emerging space nations, expanding the exchange of knowledge and experience, and supporting inclusive participation in space exploration are also central to the text. It supports equitable and fair access for all countries to the benefits derived from the exploration and use of outer space.
AN INVITATION TO THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY IN THE “ANTALYA SPIRIT”
Under the heading “The Antalya Spirit”, the Declaration recognises Türkiye’s contribution as the host country and the IAF’s role in fostering global dialogue. Guided by openness, mutual respect and constructive engagement, it calls on political leaders and space officials to act with awareness of the impact of their decisions on future generations.
Endorsed by 32 ministers, members of parliament and heads of space agencies from 21 countries, the Antalya Declaration on Space for Peace remains open for further endorsements. Ministers, members of parliament and heads of space agencies from countries that have not yet endorsed the Declaration are invited to join this collective endeavour to preserve space as a domain of peace, dialogue and cooperation.
Click here to read the full text of the Antalya Declaration for Peace in Space