Third Budapest Conference on Space Law and Policy - “European Space Ambitions at a Time of Change”

On 4 December 2025, the Third Budapest Conference on Space Law and Policy took place at the Ludovika University of Public Service in Budapest.

The event, organized by the Institute of Aerospace and Telecommunications Law - in co-operation with the Hungarian Astronautical Society and the National Media and Infocommunications Authority - provided an international forum for academics, policymakers, industry leaders and representatives of international organizations to exchange ideas and discuss the evolving landscape of European space governance.

This year’s edition focused on how emerging European and national initiatives - including new space strategies, regulatory frameworks, and investment programmes - intersect with broader technological, economic and geopolitical developments. Through presentations and discussions, participants explored how Europe’s strategic ambitions in outer space are being shaped and how the continent can strengthen its role as a global space actor in a rapidly changing environment.

By bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders - from legal experts and researchers to industry professionals - the conference aimed to foster inter-sectoral dialogue and deepen the collective understanding of challenges and opportunities in space law and policy. The event underscored the importance of co-operation among academia, government and industry to address the complex issues facing Europe’s future in space.

Keynote Speakers and Presentations

Marjolijn van Deelen - Special Envoy for Space at the European External Action Service: "EU Space Security and Defence: Priorities and Challenges"

Tomas Hrozensky - European Engagement Lead at the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI): "Is Europe a Space Power?"

Rosanna Deim‑Hoffmann - Head of Space Law at the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA): "Global Governance of Space Activities"

Andrew Aldrin - CEO and President of the Aldrin Family Foundation; Executive Director for Space Programs at Embry‑Riddle Worldwide: "Pathways to Lunar Commercial Development: Rocky Roads Ahead"

Programme

Speaker List

Presentations

Gallery