In recent years, space has increasingly found its way into the political discourse of the European Parliament (EP). This report explores the impact of space within European election discussions, emphasising the need for increased awareness and strategic integration of space-related policies.
Examining party manifestos as well as social media posts across Europe in the context of the upcoming election, the report reveals that, compared to the previous election:
- Space has seen a notable surge in interest with a 41% increase in space-related references compared to 2019 across party manifestos.
- Space receives increased attention, ranking third among technology domains prioritised by political parties, only behind AI/ML and Batteries.
- Space is now more frequently framed in terms of its impact on the continent’s security, economy, climate objectives, and capacity for innovation.
- The security and defence utility of space is recognised more widely and positively, seeing the highest uptick in 2024, with references spanning the entire political spectrum.
- Space is now more evenly distributed across almost all political groups, indicating a broadening recognition of its importance.
- The dispersion of space mentions is more widely scattered across political parties, rather than being concentrated within a few.
