Governing resources in the final frontier

Abstract How would the choice of property right regime for outer space resources and other frontiers influence the likelihood of an armed conflict? The establishment of property rights and definitions of peaceful use have become driving forces in not only economic development, but in the governance of frontiers including outer space. Applicable multilateral treaties prohibit national sovereignty/appropriation of outer space and celestial bodies, complicating their property rights regime. Differing interpretations of permissible property rights under these prevailing treaties are leading to the potential for conflict as space resources become more attractive and accessible due to surging demand and advancing technology. This article examines the connection between property rights regimes and armed conflicts through a political economy lens informed by the applicable international and U.S. law, focusing on implications for international peace and security in the twenty-first century.