International legal framework

Switzerland has ratified four UN space treaties.

The International Space Law: United Nations Instruments as it represents the most comprehensive and up-to-date volume of instruments that have been developed, promoted and strengthened under the auspices of the United Nations. — © UN/United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs

• Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies (in German, French and Italian) (1967)
• Agreement on the Rescue of Astronauts, the Return of Astronauts and the Return of Objects Launched into Outer Space (in German, French and Italian) (1968)
• Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects (in German, French and Italian) (1972)
• Convention on the Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space (in German, French and Italian) (1974)
• United Nations Space Treaties in English (United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs UNOOSA)

From this international framework, a number of general principles emerge that states must respect:

• freedom of exploration and use of space for the benefit and in the interest of all humankind;
• freedom of scientific research;
• non-appropriation of outer space;
• peaceful use of outer space;
• cooperation, mutual assistance and astronauts' status as envoys of humankind;
• states are internationally responsible for their national activities;
• states are internationally liable for damage caused by space objects;
• space objects must be registered;
• outer space objects are under the jurisdiction and control of states;
• the environment in outer space must be protected.