Governing the Final Frontier: Why Space Is the Next Strategic Arena in International Relations

Space is no longer a distant scientific endeavor, it is a strategic domain shaping global power, economic competitiveness, regulatory frameworks, and international cooperation. Satellite constellations underpin critical infrastructure, private launch companies are redefining industrial policy, and major powers are competing to influence the rules governing orbital traffic, resource extraction, and security beyond Earth. Understanding space affairs is no longer optional for international relations professionals, it is rapidly becoming a core strategic competence.

IE University invites you to a high-level hybrid discussion featuring Enrico Letta, Former Prime Minister of Italy and Dean of IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs; Elena Grifoni Winters, Former Head of Cabinet of the Director General at the European Space Agency (ESA); and Ezequiel Sánchez, Executive President of PLD Space. Together, they will examine how governance, commercialization, and geopolitical competition in space are reshaping the international order—and what this means for future leaders in diplomacy, policy, business, and global strategy.

The event will take place on April 16 at 17:00 (Madrid time) at IE Tower (Rooms T20.02 & T20.04) and will also be streamed live for a global audience.

This conversation also marks the introduction of IE University’s new Space Affairs specialization track within the Master in International Relations, designed to prepare professionals to operate at the intersection of geopolitics, regulation, and the fast-growing space economy.

We look forward to welcoming you in Madrid or online for this timely and strategic discussion.