The Robotics4EU project is excited to share a key outcome: the Responsible Robotics Advocacy report! This report, informed by extensive research, consultations, and the collective wisdom of the robotics community, engaged throughout the life-cycle of Robotics4EU project, outlines a comprehensive strategy for promoting responsible robotics development in the European Union.

Here is a glimpse into key topics of recommendations, designed to foster responsible robotics forward:

•  Advancing a Coherent Responsible Robotics Regulatory Framework

The report proposes the creation of an EU expert group to streamline regulations for responsible robotics. This could involve clear and consistent ethics and safety guidelines that complement existing Machinery and AI regulations. Additionally, robust testing and experimentation methodologies are crucial for informing future evidence-based policies. Finally, the report emphasises the need for evolving safety standards that consider the dynamic nature of robotics, balancing safety with efficiency and user experience.

• Empowering the Robotics Community

The report acknowledges the challenges faced by roboticists, especially small and medium enterprises, in navigating ethical and legal requirements. It recommends improved access to resources through existing initiatives like EDIHs, TEFs, IP Helpdesk, and other robotics-industry targeted EU initiatives. Additionally, self-assessment tools should be accessible and up-to-date with the policy developments to help developers ensure their creations align with responsible robotics principles. Lastly, public-funded robotics projects should emphasise the role of ELSA experts in supporting robotics teams in responsible robotics development.

• Fostering Multi-Stakeholder Engagement:

The core concept of responsible robotics revolves around robotics development that focuses on societal wishes and concerns. The report underscores the importance of public awareness and realistic expectations surrounding robotics. It calls for increased societal dialogue through public outreach campaigns and citizen engagement in EU discussions, tackling fears and misconceptions and distilling wishes and concerns.  Furthermore, the report advocates for multi-stakeholder collaboration throughout the robotics life cycle in robotics research and development projects.  This ensures diverse perspectives are incorporated, promoting responsible development from the outset. 

• Equipping the Workforce for the Future:

The report recognises the impact of robotics on the workforce. It highlights the need for collaborative discussions between industry, policymakers, and worker representatives to ensure a smooth transition. Sector-specific or locally-focused conferences can identify emerging trends and develop action plans to adapt regulations and strategies for a just transition. Finally, the report emphasises the importance of education. It calls for promoting technical education with a focus on responsible robotics through scholarships, certifications, and integrating mandatory technology ethics courses into engineering and computer science curricula.

By implementing these recommendations, the Robotics4EU project envisions a future where robotics flourishes within a responsible and ethical framework.

Full list of recommendations and measures, alongside the presentation of the drivers and barriers for robotics acceptance in society, can be accessed here.

Author: Jovita Tautkevičiūtė (CIVITTA)