GNSS liability issues : possible solutions to a global system

Navigation by satellite---GNSS---is a local technology with global repercussions. Although operation and control rest in government hands, the consequences of satellite use, most often beneficial, have a worldwide effect. Controversy arises when this free-of-direct-charge technology, on which the International Community relies, fails, thus causing damage to third parties.It was the intention of the drafters and negotiators of the international space law regime to establish a victim-oriented liability framework, in order to guarantee adequate compensation for damage caused by space activities. Unfortunately, it seems that the present regime has only partially met these goals.The surest means of obtaining compensation is through domestic legal regimes, but these regimes are naturally subject to the ebb and flow of government policy and judicial discretion.The present thesis will analyse the established liability regimes for which a damaged GNSS final user may seek compensation, and will finally consider whether the drafting of a GNSS Convention is opportune