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.
Adobe
Our research brief 'Neurotechnology - Integrating Human Rights in Regulation' examines the human rights challenges posed by the rapid development of neurotechnology.
Global Torture Index
Via its DHRTTDs Directory, the Geneva Human Rights Platform provides a comprehensive list and description of such key tools and databases. But how to navigate them? Which tool should be used for what, and by whom? This interview helps us understand better the specificities of the current highlight of the directory: Global Torture Index
ICRC
Co-hosted with the ICRC, this event aims to enhance the capacity of academics to teach and research international humanitarian law, while also equipping policymakers with an in-depth understanding of ongoing legal debates.
Adobe Stock
This seminar explores how national mechanisms for implementation, reporting and follow-up can better integrate the capacities, data, and experiences of local and regional governments in advancing human rights implementation and reporting.
UN Photo / Jean-Marc Ferré
This training course will explore the origin and evolution of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) and its functioning in Geneva and will focus on the nature of implementation of the UPR recommendations at the national level.
ICRC
Participants in this training course will gain practical insights into UN human rights mechanisms and their role in environmental protection and learn about how to address the interplay between international human rights and environmental law, and explore environmental litigation paths.
UN Photo / Jean-Marc Ferré
Paolo Margari
This research aims at mainstreaming the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment and the protection it affords in the work of the UN Human Rights Council, its Special Procedures and Universal Periodic Review, as well as in the work of the UN General Assembly and UN treaty bodies.
Geneva Academy
Geneva Academy