Monitoring

The term ‘monitoring’ can hold different meanings depending on the context. In the context of verification for space security, it refers to the collection of various forms of data pertaining to States’ implementation of an agreement or conformity with guidelines in order to build a picture of all relevant activities in a State. This can be undertaken unilaterally using national technical means (NTM) and other forms of intelligence collection; cooperatively through some form of agreement to enhance transparency; or multilaterally, something often achieved through the work of international organizations. Notably, monitoring does not necessarily require States to accept specific legally binding obligations. In this sense, monitoring State activities can play a role beyond assisting in the verification process for legally binding agreements by fostering States’ adherence to their commitments. Monitoring is therefore an instrument that serves to build confidence and deter violations or irresponsible conduct.

In the context of radio frequency regulations, article 16 of the ITU Radio Regulations contains provisions related to international monitoring. National administrations agree to develop monitoring facilities and cooperate in the international monitoring system to help ensure efficient and economical radio-frequency spectrum use and eliminate promptly harmful interference. The international monitoring system consists of nominated monitoring stations operated by national administrations, public or private entities, common monitoring services, or international organizations. The national administrations conduct, as far as they consider practicable, monitoring requested of them by other administrations or by the ITU.