Assuming that the UN may lay claim to the larger governance of the space environment, it would still be possible for it to serve as an "umbrella-type" structure over a number of regional institutions. For example, in May 1978, five Andean States met to consider the feasibility of a regional space program. ESA maintains contacts with COPUOS at the present time. Whether or not the UN takes on larger powers relating to the governance of the space environment, it will be obliged to maintain contacts with the specialized agencies, with members of the UN family, and with representatives of non-governmental organizations. Any new space regime would be confronted by the same need. It would be expected that the regime would have as a part of its structure suitable technical bodies. Their functions could parallel those now exercised by the ITU's International Frequency Registration Board and its International Radio Consultative Committee. Whether a new space regime is established or not, there will still be a very great need to insure that COPUOS and the ITU are assigned clear-cut responsibilities in the spectrum/orbit area. With the formation of a new regime this same problem would be manifest. There is a need for a very careful assessment of the respective governing powers and interests at the UN, ITU, and a possible new regime in this precise area. A new regime would also provide, collect, and distribute a considerable amount of factual data. This would include, but not be limited to, data on the use of orbits, safety requirements, distance requirements, These States are Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. They were joined by representatives of the world business community and by special guests from other countries, including governmental spokesmen.
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