"Stop Immediately": Backlash Grows as Over 4,000 Rally Against Delivery Robots Taking Over Streets

Backlash Against Delivery Robots in the US and UK
Calls for Regulation Over Pedestrian Rights and Job Threats
Estimated 2.1 Million Robots to Operate Globally by 2034

Some citizens are expressing opposition to autonomous delivery robots rolling along sidewalks.

Uber Eats delivery robot on the streets of the UK. Official website of the manufacturer Starship Technologies

According to a report by Yonhap News on June 17, 2026 (local time), citing the BBC, “Debate is mounting in major cities around the world over delivery robots, with growing concerns about infringement of pedestrian rights, safety, and potential threats to jobs.” These robots, used to deliver groceries and fast food, are equipped with cameras, sensors, and GPS, allowing them to detect and avoid obstacles along their routes.

Operators claim that the robots not only provide safe services but also help reduce traffic and emissions. Danny Pass, European Operations Director at Starship Technologies, a delivery robot supplier, said, “For many people, sharing sidewalks with robots is a new experience,” adding, “Friendly and polite delivery robots have become part of everyday life in many communities.”

However, some citizens and labor groups have called for regulations, citing concerns over pedestrian rights and job security. John Roberts, a Chicago resident, told the BBC, “At first, they seemed futuristic and impressive, but after having to avoid a robot while walking with my family, my perspective changed.” He questioned the situation where humans must yield to robots on sidewalks designed for people.

Roberts added that there have been reports of citizens being injured in collisions with robots and that malfunctioning robots at crosswalks have blocked emergency vehicles. He is currently leading a petition to halt the operation of delivery robots throughout Chicago until proper safety tests and clear regulations are established, and approximately 4,400 people have signed so far.

Delivery robot image. Starship Technologies official website

The controversy has also expanded to issues of employment. The Independent Workers' Union of Great Britain (IWGB), which represents delivery workers and others, expressed concerns that robots may reduce job opportunities. Alex Marshall, President of IWGB, stated, “We are concerned about the impact that delivery robots will have on jobs,” and pointed out, “People will end up fighting for their livelihoods against these useless robots.”

Amid these concerns, several regions have introduced regulations. San Francisco allows robots to operate only in less congested areas, while Toronto, Canada, has banned sidewalk robots since 2021. In Chicago, delivery robots have recently been banned in two downtown districts. In the UK, some citizens have also taken direct action; in Sheffield, England, there were reports of Uber Eats delivery robots being damaged.

Nevertheless, experts believe that delivery robots will continue to spread rapidly despite these controversies. In a report released last summer, research firm Transformaa Insights estimated that by 2034, approximately 2.1 million delivery robots will be operating worldwide.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.