Analysing Space Data Sharing Through Normative Power: The Case for a Japan-ASEAN Partnership

摘要

Space-based remote sensing is playing a prominent role for disaster management and socioeconomic development in Asia-Pacific. However, the unequal access to space technology in the region prompts the establishment of regional data-sharing agreements. This situation provides an opportunity for the region's leading space powers to enhance their regional influence. By invoking the concept of concept of Normative Power from the field of international relations, this article demonstrates (1) the applicability of this concept in the space sector, through an analysis of the European space sector and (2) the usefulness for decision-makers in advanced space powers to follow its methodological framework to design efficient strategies for enhanced regional influence. In particular, this paper argues that a tight collaboration with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations on space data sharing could participate in an ambitious Japanese diplomatic strategy of enhancement of its normative influence over the Asian space sector, in times marked by the rise of other powerful regional space actors. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.