The European ministers are expected, at the EU ‘Space’ Council of 29 November, to stress the urgent need to develop a global approach focused on strengthening and developing European skills in the space sector in order to guarantee the European Union’s competitiveness, leadership and non-dependence on the world stage.
In the conclusions they are expected to adopt, ministers will underline the need for a “predictable and competitive environment” to ensure the development of space assets that attract investment and foster innovation, economic growth, job creation, resilience, safety and sustainability, taking into account the full potential of the European space ecosystem and avoiding unnecessary regulatory burden on them and Member States.
They will also emphasise a global approach integrating skills development, regulatory frameworks and international collaboration.
The EU Council is expected to invite the Commission to “contribute to the development of the competencies and skills needed for the successful implementation of the Union space programmes and for enhancing the competitiveness and resilience of the European space sector”, in cooperation with the relevant EU agencies, Member States and industry.
Ministers could stress the importance of education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and of synergies between public authorities, business and academia to foster innovation, sustainability and resilience in the European space sector.
They will also reportedly ask Member States and the Commission, where appropriate, to explore the possibilities of strengthening programmes such as job placement and training at all levels to ensure generational renewal to address a potential skills shortage, “which is essential for preserving knowledge and advancing competencies in the space sector”.
In addition, welcoming the measures taken by Member States to develop national strategies devoted to the development of competencies and skills that can be useful to the ecosystem, the ministers will encourage synergies at all levels, “which, by leveraging available competencies can enhance Europe’s capabilities and influence, and foster a culture of innovation and excellence”.
To see the draft conclusions: https://aeur.eu/f/eg6 (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant with Léa Marchal)