The Outer Space Security Conference 2025 (OS25), hosted by the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), will take place on 9-10 September 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland, as well as online for global participation. As the leading annual event on space security, OS25 brings together a diverse array of stakeholders including diplomats, military officials, technical specialists, private sector leaders, and academic experts to address the rapidly evolving landscape of outer space security.
This conference plays a vital role in shaping the international community’s understanding and response to current and emerging space security challenges. With increasing reliance on space-based infrastructure and the growing risks of congestion, the need for collaborative and inclusive global space governance has never been more urgent.
Building on the success of previous editions, OS25 promises to be a pivotal platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action in ensuring that outer space remains a peaceful, secure, and sustainable environment for all.
Overview of the OS25 Youth Video Competition:
In parallel with the main conference, UNIDIR’s Space Security Programme is once again partnering with the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI) to host the OS25 Youth Video Competition. This initiative offers a unique opportunity for young people aged 18 to 25 from around the world to participate in shaping the conversation on global space security.
The video competition reflects the inclusive spirit of the Outer Space Treaty, which affirms that outer space shall be explored and used for the benefit of all countries, regardless of their level of development. In alignment with this principle, the competition is designed to amplify youth voices and provide a meaningful avenue for young leaders to influence the future of space governance.
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Objectives of OS25 Youth Video Competition:
The OS25 Youth Video Competition serves several key objectives:
● Promote meaningful youth engagement in global conversations about space security and governance.
● Showcase creative, forward-thinking, and diverse perspectives on the future of outer space.
● Encourage the next generation of policymakers, scientists, diplomats, and technologists to play an active role in shaping inclusive and effective space governance frameworks.
By inviting youth to actively contribute their visions, the competition aims to strengthen multilateral dialogue and ensure that the next generation is equipped and empowered to lead efforts toward a peaceful and sustainable outer space environment.
Benefits and Opportunities for Winners:
Winning participants will receive a fully funded trip to Geneva, Switzerland, to attend the OS25 conference in person. The prize package includes:
● Round-trip economy airfare.
● Accommodation for the duration of the conference.
● Daily per diem to cover meals and incidentals.
Additionally, winning videos will:
● Premiere during a lightning talk segment at the OS25 conference.
● Be featured on the UNIDIR website and across social media channels.
● Provide winners with the opportunity to expand their video into a published commentary on UNIDIR’s platform.
This competition provides not only international recognition but also valuable exposure and professional development opportunities in the fields of international security, space law, and global governance.
2025 Theme: Space Security in the Year 2050:
This year’s video competition challenges participants to imagine themselves in the year 2050, working in a professional role that directly impacts space security and governance. Entrants are encouraged to assume roles such as:
● Treaty negotiator.
● Orbital traffic controller.
● Space policy advisor.
● Space infrastructure inspector.
● Or any other space governance position they envision.
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Participants are asked to reflect on the following question: What challenge do you face in 2050, and how are you responding to it?
This theme invites young visionaries to look beyond today’s geopolitical and technological landscape and explore future challenges that may arise in the next 25 years. Whether dealing with new types of space debris, cyber threats targeting orbital systems, or questions of equitable access and commercialization, entrants are encouraged to consider what responsible leadership will be required to keep outer space peaceful, accessible, and sustainable.
This is an opportunity for youth to conduct horizon scanning—to identify emerging trends and risks, imagine new governance mechanisms, and propose creative, practical solutions. Participants do not need to be space professionals today, but for the purpose of the video, they are asked to imagine themselves in such a role and present their vision of space governance and security in 2050.
Eligibility Criteria to Participate:
The OS25 Youth Video Competition is open to:
● Individuals aged 18 to 25 years from any country in the world.
● Participants must be passionate about global affairs, space, technology, governance, or sustainability.
● Must be eager to contribute to one of the most critical conversations of the future.
Submission Guidelines:
To ensure a fair and consistent process, the following guidelines must be followed:
● Only one submission per person is allowed.
● Submissions must be original content created solely by the entrant.
● AI-generated videos or images will result in disqualification.
● Entries must be free of any copyrighted materials not owned or created by the participant.
● All submissions must comply with applicable local and international laws.
Technical Requirements:
To ensure compatibility and accessibility, the technical criteria for video submissions are as follows:
● Videos must be submitted in .mp4 format, and should include audio, visuals, and subtitles in a single file.
● Any language may be used in the video, but non-English videos must include English closed captions.
● Videos should ideally be recorded in landscape (horizontal) format. However, portrait (vertical) videos will not be disqualified.
Evaluation Criteria:
Submissions will be assessed based on the following criteria:
● Originality and creativity of the concept.
● Relevance to the 2025 theme.
● Clarity and technical quality of the presentation
● Awareness of space security and governance issues.
● Engagement and thoughtfulness in delivery.
A diverse panel of judges from UNIDIR and CIGI will evaluate the entries. The judging process is designed to ensure fairness and transparency, with a strong emphasis on geographic, gender, and disciplinary diversity. Submissions that reflect youth perspectives from underrepresented regions and communities are especially encouraged.
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How to Apply for the OS25 Youth Video Competition?
Participants are required to:
● Create a 1 to 3-minute original video based on the 2025 competition theme.
● Submit the video using the official submission form by the application deadline of 18 July 2025.
Conclusion:
The Outer Space Security Conference 2025 and its accompanying Youth Video Competition highlight the critical importance of inclusive dialogue and innovation in addressing future space security challenges. By involving the next generation of thinkers and leaders, UNIDIR and its partners are laying the groundwork for a sustainable and equitable outer space domain. Whether you're a student, researcher, aspiring diplomat, or simply passionate about space and international affairs, this is your chance to contribute your voice to the future of space governance. Submit your vision by 18 July 2025, and help shape how humanity navigates the final frontier. So to apply and know more visit Outer Space Security Conference 2025 official link here.