Crime, Security and Governance in Outer Space

Outer space is rapidly evolving from a specialised domain into a critical component of modern society. Satellites support communication, navigation, financial systems, and national security. At the same time, new risks are emerging that existing legislation, oversight mechanisms, and enforcement structures are not yet adequately equipped to address.

Cyberattacks on satellites, interference with space infrastructure, disputes over resource extraction, and issues related to human behaviour in isolated environments are no longer science fiction. They represent real and growing challenges for governments, businesses, and international organisations.

The Masterclass Space Crime & Policing offers a unique introduction to this emerging and rapidly expanding field. Drawing on criminology, law, governance, psychology, and technology, the programme explores how crime and security challenges may manifest in outer space and examines the role of regulation, enforcement, and governance in addressing them.

Programme

The masterclass carries a workload of 5 ECTS and is delivered in an intensive two-week format. The first week consists of interactive sessions held on the campuses of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and the University of Twente. The second week focuses on individual reflection, research, and the development of a forward-looking advisory assignment.

Topics covered

Introduction to Space Crime, Policing and Justice
Space Law, Governance and International Jurisdiction
Criminology and Policing in Outer Space
Human Behaviour in Extreme Environments
Cybersecurity and Space Security
Risk Management and Crisis Response
Ethics, Justice and Governance Design
Future Scenarios for Policing and Enforcement in Space

Discover the entire program
View the full program and see how you are taken into the world of space crime, policing, governance, and space security over two weeks.

Who is this programme for?

This masterclass is designed for professionals working at the intersection of technology, security, policy, and governance.

Typical participants include:

Policymakers and regulators
Defence and security professionals
Legal and compliance specialists
Cybersecurity professionals
Risk managers
Executives and strategic advisors
Professionals working in the space sector
Researchers and innovation professionals

One of the programme’s key strengths is the diversity of its participants. Professionals from different disciplines, backgrounds, and levels of experience come together to explore complex challenges from multiple perspectives and learn from one another’s expertise.

Upon completion of the programme, you will:

Understand the key security and crime-related challenges within the space domain.
Gain insight into international regulation, governance frameworks, and oversight mechanisms.
Be able to apply criminological and security theories to space-related challenges.
Understand how organisations can prepare for future risks and incidents in outer space.
Develop the ability to formulate strategic recommendations for policy, governance, and risk management.
Build a multidisciplinary network of professionals and experts working across related fields.