Two-Day International Webinar on the Intricacies of Military Artificial Intelligence and International Humanitarian Law through the Lens of Precautionary Principles
Creators: name: Institute of Legal and Policy Research
Publisher: name: Zenodo
Year: 2024

description: The increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into military operations raises significant humanitarian concerns, particularly regarding the ethical, legal, and social implications of its deployment in armed conflict. The competition among superpowers and middle-sized nations for AI utilization has intensified, raising concerns about responsibility and adherence to existing legal frameworks. The advent of autonomous weapons systems (AWS), often referred to as "killer robots," presents particular challenges to international humanitarian law (IHL), especially regarding the distinction between civilians and combatants, the prohibition of unnecessary suffering, and the principle of proportionality. The inherent unpredictability of AWS and their potential incapacity to discern nuances in complex battle scenarios create a "responsibility gap," complicating the identification of consequences for illegal actions when decisions are made autonomously. The growing dependence on AI technologies necessitates a robust legal framework that addresses the challenges associated with their application in military contexts. The International Committee of the Red Cross has called for an outright ban on autonomous weapons capable of directly targeting individuals and those that behave erratically.

Algorithmic bias in AI systems represents one of the most significant obstacles to integrating AI into military decision-making processes. AI systems may perpetuate existing prejudices when trained on historical data, potentially leading to unjust outcomes in military operations. This could contravene IHL's prohibition against unfair discrimination based on race, religion, or national origin. States must take action to ensure that AI technologies are developed and applied in a manner that minimizes these biases.

The issue of state responsibility also arises in the context of AI and military applications. States may be held accountable for wrongdoing committed by AI systems under the Articles on State Responsibility for Internationally Wrongful Acts (ARSIWA). To maintain compliance with international law, states' responsibilities regarding the development, procurement, and application of military AI technologies must be clearly defined.

The militarization of AI significantly affects the conduct of armed conflict and global security. A moral strategy that prioritizes adherence to international humanitarian law is crucial as governments continue to develop and implement advanced AI technologies. This strategy should include establishing robust governance frameworks that ensure accountability, transparency, and minimal harm to civilians.

Therefore, the international community must collaborate to address the ethical and legal challenges posed by the use of AI in warfare. Through cooperation, we can ensure that AI in combat aligns with the fundamental values of humanity and the rule of law, protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals affected by armed conflict.

 

URL: https://www.lawctopus.com/webinar-military-ai-international-humanitarian-law-virtual/