## 6 Open Challenges, Future Prospects and Research Directions
### ITU Recommendations
#### 6.2.2 Regulatory Issues  
The deployment of FSO communication systems faces several regulatory barriers that must be resolved to guarantee widespread adoption. Key issues include spectrum allocation, compliance with international standards, and the establishment of safety guidelines to prevent interference with other communication systems and ensure eye safety. This section explores these regulatory hurdles, discusses current policies and their implications, and outlines the necessary steps for creating a supportive regulatory framework that can facilitate the efficient and safe deployment of FSO systems.  
Spectrum Allocation  
Unlike RF communication, which operates within regulated frequency bands, FSO communication utilizes unlicensed optical spectrum. While this provides a significant advantage in terms of deployment flexibility, it also raises concerns about potential interference and the need for global harmonization. Also, regulatory bodies need to establish guidelines for the use of optical spectrum, ensuring that FSO systems can operate without interference from other optical devices and across national borders.  
Safety Regulations  
FSO communication involves high-powered lasers, which can pose safety risks to humans and animals if not properly regulated. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) provides standards such as IEC 60825-1, refs. [3; 506] which outlines safety requirements for laser products. Compliance with laser safety standards is critical for the safe deployment of FSO systems. Regulatory bodies must enforce these standards and conduct regular inspections to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.  
Deployment Permits and Zoning Laws  
Installing FSO equipment, especially in urban areas, requires navigating complex zoning laws and obtaining necessary permits. Local regulations can vary significantly, impacting the speed and cost of FSO deployment. Streamlining the permitting process and creating uniform regulations can facilitate faster and more efficient deployment of FSO systems, particularly in densely populated regions.  
For international FSO links, especially those connecting different countries, coordination between national regulatory bodies is essential. Issues such as signal interference, spectrum management, and compliance with safety standards must be harmonized to ensure seamless cross-border communication. International cooperation and agreements are necessary to address these challenges, fostering a regulatory environment conducive to global FSO deployment.  
Environmental Regulations  
The deployment of FSO systems must also consider environmental regulations, particularly in sensitive areas such as wildlife reserves or historical sites. Ensuring that FSO infrastructure does not negatively impact the environment is a key regulatory concern. Regulatory frameworks should include provisions for environmental impact assessments and the implementation of mitigation measures to protect ecological and cultural heritage.  
Moreover, to realize the full potential of FSO communication, stakeholders must collaborate to establish comprehensive standards and regulatory frameworks. By addressing these standardization and regulatory challenges, the FSO communication industry can pave the way for widespread adoption, enabling high-speed, secure, and reliable wireless communication on a global scale.