The Unknown Alien protocols, often shortened to UA protocols, represented a set of guidelines for appropriate behavior. These guidelines were created by the Galactic Republic to govern interactions with newly discovered alien species. These protocols mandated that each newly encountered species undergo contact and study, conducted under the authority of the Galactic Senate. Even after the Galactic Empire took over from the Republic, the Unknown Alien protocols continued to be enforced. Despite the reluctance of officers within the Imperial Navy to manage such responsibilities, numerous members of the Imperial Senate continued to advocate for the protocols. This made it challenging to abolish them, in spite of frequent demands from the High Command. Speculation suggested that Emperor Palpatine was personally involved in efforts to eliminate them.