Post-Detection SETI Protocols & METI: The Time Has Come To Regulate Them Both

TL;DR

This paper emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive regulations on METI and post-detection SETI activities due to increased capabilities, international involvement, and potential risks, proposing multi-level governance frameworks.

Contribution

It highlights the current regulatory gaps and proposes specific recommendations for agency, national, and international regulations to oversee SETI and METI activities.

Findings

Current regulations are weak or non-existent.

Increased international involvement heightens the need for oversight.

Proposed multi-level regulatory frameworks.

Abstract

Regulations governing METI are weak or non-existent. Post-detection SETI protocols are non-binding and too general. Vastly increased SETI capabilities, Chinese involvement in the field, and an intensified effort by METI-ists to initiate radio transmissions to the stars are among reasons cited for urgency in addressing the question of appropriate regulations. Recommendations include regulations at the agency level and laws at the national level as well as international treaties and oversight.