The International Institute of Space Law (IISL) Working Group on the Interplanetary Internet held its inaugural session, marking a significant step toward advancing research on future space‑based communication networks. Chaired by Berna Akcali Gur of the UNU-CRIS Digital Governance Cluster, the Working Group will guide research on the legal foundations of interplanetary connectivity, informed by relevant policy and technical considerations.
The group aims to produce a report that identifies applicable norms and principles of outer space law and public international law, examines interplanetary internet governance, and highlights gaps and challenges within current governance frameworks. The report will focus on supporting the development and operation of the interplanetary internet while safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders. In doing so, the Working Group will collaborate with organisations active in this field, engage interested parties through workshops and webinars, and raise awareness within the outer space law community about the significance of the interplanetary internet and its implications for future governance structures.
The inaugural event also represented the first formal collaboration between UNU‑CRIS and IISL. Designed to introduce participants to the foundations of digital governance in the context of emerging interplanetary communication systems, the programme featured a keynote presentation by Nadia Tjahja, Co‑Coordinator of the Digital Governance Cluster. Her talk provided a clear and accessible overview of internet governance, grounding participants in the history, principles, and institutions that will influence communication infrastructures beyond Earth.
Co‑organised by both institutions, the event drew strong engagement and laid the groundwork for continued cooperation as the Working Group advances its research agenda.
If interested, please follow the working group Linkedin page to attend events and join the discussion.