About ECSL
The European Centre for Space Law (ECSL) was established in 1989 under the auspices of the European Space Agency (ESA) and with the support of a number of pioneers in this field. It is founded on the basis of a Charter, last amended in 2009.
Current members of the ECSL include professionals working in a wide range of areas within the space sector, public institutions, international organisations, lawyers, university professors and students.
Among other things, one of the main objectives of the Centre is to provide a forum for all those wishing to participate in constructive dialogue related to space law, and to encourage interdisciplinary exchange among members.
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Structure
The ECSL structure is flexible and open. Its General Meeting of Members meets every three years and is open to all ECSL members. This body is responsible for electing the ECSL Board and ensuring that it broadly represents its members both in terms of their professional backgrounds and geographical location.
Members of the ECSL Board are nationals of ESA Member States, Associate Member States or other European countries with a cooperation agreement with ESA. They are elected for a period of three years by the General Meeting of Members.
ECSL Board
ECSL Board Members have a background and considerable experience in space law, and are involved in promoting the aims of ECSL at national and international level. All ECSL members - professionals, academics and students - are eligible to nominate themselves for election.
Executive Secretariat
ECSL has a full-time Secretariat. The Executive Officer, based at ESA's Headquarters in Paris, is responsible for heading the Centre and for managing the Centre's activities.
Membership
Citizens of ESA Member States, Associate Members or Cooperating States can become members of ECSL upon payment of the membership fee.
Membership gives the right to participate in selected ECSL activities, to vote at the General Meeting of Members, to receive and contribute to the ECSL newsletter and to receive further benefits. ECSL membership is valid for one year (Jan-Dec) and is renewable on an annual basis.
Financing
Currently, an important part of ECSL’s funding is provided by ESA. Other institutions can provide support for specific events such as the Summer Course or the Manfred Lachs Moot Court Competition. Since 1994, ECSL members have been contributing by paying an annual membership fee and thus supporting the Centre.
2023 Membership fees:
€20 for student membership
€50 for individual membership
€600 for institutional membership
