Potential Abuses to the ITU Radio Regulations: The Licensing of Small Satellites

This article examines potential abuses to the ITU Radio Regulations by administrations and small satellites operators when it comes to frequency allocation. More specifically, it introduces the problematic nature of Article 4.4 of the Regulations and its potential misuse. This is being demonstrated by the example of the FCC's public notice for guidance on obtaining license for small satellites, which is in derogation of the Treaty, and the effects it has on the telecommunications world. The article also discusses possible solutions and measures that can be adopted to remedy the problem and stop any further abuse of the Regulations.