21 August 2024
Our latest research brief, Sending Up a Flare: Autonomous Weapons Systems Proliferation Risks to Human Rights and International Security, authored by Research Consultant Leif Monnett, examines the proliferation of autonomous weapons systems (AWS), and consequent risks to security and human rights.
AWS have been the subject of international processes since 2014. Proliferation risks, however, remain under-addressed in international fora. In response, this research examines factors determining which kinds of AWS proliferate, to whom they proliferate, and the pace and scope of proliferation. It identifies international security and law risks from the proliferation of AWS to state and non-state actors, including risks to civil society.
As explained by Leif Monnett, 'The proliferation of AWS to state and non-state actors threatens international security and poses serious risks to a wide range of human rights. Certain AWS technologies facilitate the killing or maiming of vulnerable people, or groups of people. The inherent difficulty of attributing AWS attacks may undermine accountability: a core principle underpinning international law.'
A key conclusion is that international action to address this potentiality is urgently needed. Head of Research and Policy Dr. Erica Harper underscored the report’s conclusion that 'The international community must seize the window of opportunity created by a growing awareness around AWS proliferation, and take proactive and concrete action to evaluate and mitigate the threats to human rights.' Specific policy recommendations include: evaluating the feasibility of a monitoring program to track the development and use of AWS; convening an interdisciplinary expert working group to identify best practices to reduce the vulnerability of high-risk targets; prohibiting the development of AWS which use technology facilitating targeted killing; and calling upon states to pledge to refrain from the domestic use of AWS.
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The Human Rights Data Revolution details the transformation which promises to enhance the effectiveness, inclusivity, and scope of human rights monitoring and implementation worldwide.
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Our latest Research Brief Between Science-Fact and Science-Fiction: Innovation and Ethics in Neurotechnology highlights the need for a robust regulatory framework around neurotechnology that can simultaneously foster innovation and protect human rights.
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This one-hour side-event to the 57th session of the Human Rights Council aims to showcase the transformative potential of digital technologies in advancing human rights and SDG monitoring.
Geneva Academy
This public event, addressing the international community in and outside Geneva will highlight and discuss current issues and challenges in the work of Geneva-based actors, as they relate to human rights.
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Participants in this training course, made of two modules, will examine the major international and regional instruments for the promotion of human rights and the environment, familiarizing themselves with the respective implementation and enforcement mechanisms.
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This training course will examine how the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights have been utilized to advance the concept of business respect for human rights throughout the UN system, the impact of the Guiding Principles on other international organizations, as well as the impact of standards and guidance developed by these different bodies.
Adobe
To unpack the challenges raised by artificial intelligence, this project will target two emerging and under-researched areas: digital military technologies and neurotechnology.
UN Photo / Jean-Marc Ferré
A series of events aimed at discussing contemporary issues and challenges related to the promotion and protection of human rights in Geneva and beyond.
Geneva Academy