Authorities to utilize space data for disaster risk management

The interior ministry has drafted legislation seeking to approve a concept of utilizing space-based information for disaster risk management. 

The bill has been submitted for public debates. 

The measure, according to the interior ministry, is aimed at withstanding disaster and climate change challenges and ensuring timely and coordinated access to space services and high-quality geospatial information in all phases of disaster risk management.

The legislation is expected to prevent or reduce disaster risks and impacts through utilization of space-based information and technologies.

It will ensure cooperation between international partners, NGOs, private companies, scientific and educational institutions.

Since 2021 Armenia has been an authorized user of the International Charter on Space and Major Disasters, which enables to access necessary data during disasters and convey it to the state administration system and relevant bodies. Such a necessity arose during the floods in Lori and Tavush provinces. The adoption of the concept will contribute to the development of local capacity.

Armenia sent its first satellite into orbit in 2022. The second satellite, developed entirely indigenously, was launched the next year.