Publication

This report analyzes the potentially serious consequences of the US drone strike program and makes recommendations for improving its governance. The author notes that significant questions exist about who constitutes a legitimate target and under what circumstances it is acceptable to strike, and raises the question of net utility. The report argues that the US should end so-called signature strikes, targeting unidentified militants based on their behavior patterns and personal networks, and limit targeted killings to a limited number of specific terrorists with transnational ambitions. He also calls for a greater role for Congress and the establishment of international rules and norms governing the use of drones.