New Spaces and International Law

The book "New Spaces and International Law" edited by Mohamed Abdelwahab Bekhechi and published in 1989 following the international conference held in Oran from December 11 to 13, 1986, constitutes a collective reflection on the transformations of international law in the face of emerging strategic and technological spaces. The volume brings together international law experts to examine the legal challenges posed by areas located beyond traditional state borders, such as outer space, the international seabed, space telecommunications, and international maritime spaces. The central thesis of the book is that the scientific and technological shifts of the 20th century have profoundly altered the traditional conception of sovereignty and territory in international law. The authors demonstrate that "new spaces" largely elude classical legal categories based on the exclusive territorial dominance of states. Consequently, this compels the international community to develop new legal principles rooted in cooperation, peaceful use, and the common heritage of mankind.