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The Missing Ingredients for a Polycentric Governance System of Orbital Debris

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  • Jean-Frédéric Morin
  • Cynthia Couette

Abstract

The pollution of Earth’s orbits by debris represents a pressing environmental problem. Recognizing that geopolitical factors hinder the adoption of a multilateral solution, several experts advocate for a polycentric governance system, inspired by Elinor Ostrom’s work. This article assesses the viability of such a proposal. It finds that the global network of space organizations exhibits some of the structural characteristics of a polycentric system. However, arrangements concluded among these organizations fail to promote sustainability norms, and interviews with key stakeholders reveal the absence of several favorable factors for a sustainable polycentric governance system. The article concludes that a polycentric structure alone does not guarantee the emergence of sustainable governance. As orbital space is a relatively “easy case” for applying polycentricity theory to the global commons, this research serves as a reminder about the limitations of polycentric approaches in global environmental politics.

Suggested Citation

  • Jean-Frédéric Morin & Cynthia Couette, 2025. "The Missing Ingredients for a Polycentric Governance System of Orbital Debris," Global Environmental Politics, MIT Press, vol. 25(2), pages 1-26, Spring.
  • Handle: RePEc:tpr:glenvp:v:25:y:2025:i:2:p:1-26
    DOI: 10.1162/glep_a_00775
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