Human Rights, International and Space Law
The University of Zurich hosts a broad community of researchers engaged in space-related topics, among them scholars examining emerging legal challenges in the space domain.
The Centre for Human Rights
The Centre for Human Rights of the University of Zurich is an interdisciplinary scientific network that promotes and coordinates research, teaching, and knowledge transfer in the field of human rights. The Centre's primary focus is on Human Rights and Business as part of responsible business conduct, particularly regarding the integration of human rights standards in economic activities of both public and private actors.
Reflecting this commitment to emerging challenges, the Centre has responded to a substantial growth in the space economy, characterised by a significant surge in investment activities from both state and non-state actors. In response to the rapidly expanding commercial utilisation of outer space, the Centre has extended its research portfolio to encompass the responsibilities and duties of governmental and commercial entities engaged in space activities.
By bringing together researchers from the social and natural sciences, the Centre provides a stimulating environment for research and serves as a forum for exchange between the business sector, government and civil society.
Find out more about the Centre for Human Rights:https://www.menschenrechte.uzh.ch/de.html
Point of Contact: Remo Messerli
Institute for International Law and Comparative Constitutional Law | UZH International Space Law Explained | United Nations
Projekt Raumfahrtgesetz
Statement regarding the proposed Swiss Federal Act on Space Activities
The University of Zurich has submitted a statement as part of the consultation process on the proposed Swiss Federal Act on Space Activities. In its response, UZH welcomes the creation of a dedicated legal framework for space activities and emphasizes the importance of a clear, forward-looking, and internationally aligned regulation that strengthens Switzerland as a research and innovation hub. The statement highlights the need for technological neutrality, legal certainty, sustainability, and responsible risk management, while underlining the central role of research and academia in fostering a competitive and sustainable Swiss space ecosystem.
Read the full statement here: 20250506_RFG_Vernehmlassung_UZH (PDF, 176 KB)