Debate in Switzerland

The Citizens' Debate on Space for Europe was the first consultation organised in every one of the 22 ESA Member States. More than 1600 citizens, selected to reflect the socio-demographic diversity of their country, debated space issues during a day-long meeting.

ESA organised this debate because it intends to involve new participants to develop its future orientation and nurture its strategy. It is crucial to the Agency to involve more actors, especially citizens, in choices that will respond to societal challenges, put space at their service and affect coming generations through space innovation, exploration and international cooperation.