Russia Sees Stronger Demand for Space Law Attorneys Across Major Cities
In recent years, vacancies for lawyers who specialize in space law have risen significantly in Russia. Data from hh.ru and educational platforms such as Moscow Digital School, part of Ultimate Education, indicate a 54% increase in these roles over the last two years. This trend highlights a shift in the legal landscape surrounding space activities and related industries. [Source: hh.ru; Moscow Digital School]
Experts connect the growth to rising interest in astronautics within Russia, the expansion of private aerospace enterprises, and the broader development of the telecom sector. They also point to shifts in the international political and economic environment as factors driving the need for space law expertise. [Source: hh.ru; Moscow Digital School]
According to Nikolai Bychkov, a leading legal consultant in the intellectual property practice at EDB law firm and a contributor to Moscow Digital School, a government directive aims to craft a national project for space development by July 1, 2024. Rosstat data show that telecommunications turnover in Russia grew by 9.7% in 2023, reaching 2.6 trillion rubles. This context fuels rising demand for legal professionals who specialize in the regulation of space activities. [Source: EDB law firm; Moscow Digital School]
Employers frequently list several essential requirements for candidates. Proficiency in contract law and full document support experience is valued, along with knowledge of corporate law, tender legislation, and copyright law. The ability to interact with state regulatory authorities, conduct claims research, and represent clients in arbitration and courts is also important. Beyond technical skills, strong negotiation, business communication, and teamwork capabilities are highly valued soft skills. [Source: hh.ru; Moscow Digital School]
Space law professionals currently concentrate in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Moscow region. They are highly sought after in St. Petersburg, where they account for more than half of vacancies compared to other regions. In 2023, demand expanded to Sverdlovsk, Novosibirsk, Omsk, Tver, Krasnodar Territory, the Altai Republic, and the Khakas Republic. In these areas, the need for space industry legal expertise rose by an average of about 80% during 2023. [Source: hh.ru; Moscow Digital School]
Historically, Russia has pursued protection measures for satellites and related communications infrastructure, underscoring the strategic importance of space law in the country’s broader technology and security agenda. [Source: hh.ru; Moscow Digital School]