AIF Insights No. 13 (2026) | The Drone Revolution: A Strategic Roadmap for Technology Integration and Policy Action in Cambodia and the Global South

AIF Insights No. 13 (2026) | The Drone Revolution: A Strategic Roadmap for Technology Integration and Policy Action in Cambodia and the Global South

Author: ROS Sayumphu, PhD in Science and Technology Studies

This article explores the transformative potential and regulatory challenges of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), particularly within the context of Cambodia and the Global South. While drones have evolved from military roots into versatile “flying platforms” for precision agriculture, disaster management, and infrastructure inspection, their proliferation raises significant concerns regarding technical sovereignty, data privacy, and ethical automation. The author argues that Cambodia’s conservative regulatory stance—rooted in past security incidents—should transition toward a proactive strategy that leverages regional successes in 3D modeling of cultural heritage and intelligent flood forecasting. Ultimately, the paper provides a strategic roadmap recommending the establishment of a comprehensive legal framework, privacy by design through geofencing, and investment in open-source technology to ensure that drone integration serves national development rather than creating external dependence.

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