Building trust in drones - accountability video transcript

Dr Peter Lee
Director, Security and Risk & Reader in Politics and Ethics, University of Portsmouth

When asked about drones, it is understandable that many people’s first thought is about some of the negative headlines and scare stories we have seen.

What people need, if business and public trust in drones is to increase, is clear accountability and a belief that safe, responsible drone use is being encouraged and enforced.

Particularly during times of change, and the introduction of new technology, people tend to feel reassured when they know who is in charge and who is there to help.

The public needs to know who to turn to when things go wrong. They need to trust the reporting process and have confidence that action will be taken.

Similarly, businesses need to know they can trust drone operators.

Many businesses already see the value drones can add, but may hesitate to use them if they are worried it could damage their reputation if they pick the wrong partner.

Rules do exist to promote safe and sensible drone use, but public awareness of them is low.

We also need to ensure those in charge have the right processes, policies and resources in place.

At present, many people would turn to the police. But are our hard working police forces equipped, in terms of capacity and capability to respond to complaints and concerns about drones?

A key solution is to make drone users themselves more accountable for their actions with clearly communicated consequences for misuse.

We must also ensure there is an open conversation and the public and the business community feel they can ask questions and get the information they need.

Drones offer an unprecedented opportunity for businesses and consumers. But that is all the more reason to ensure we do not miss out, and there are trusted systems in place to promote positive use and restrict any negative impact.