United Nations Launches New Global Forum to Tackle Military AI Risks

The United Nations is launching a new international initiative to address the military uses of artificial intelligence and the threat it poses to humanity. The U.N. Institute for Disarmament Research, known as UNIDIR, is setting up the initiative to create the first international forum for key players to deal with the issue.

Human Control Risks

Robin Geiss, head of the Geneva-based institute, warned at a press conference that the margin for human judgment is getting smaller, including in the nuclear domain. He stated that it is hard to know how close the world is to machines acting outside of human control. AI is already used in early warning systems, information gathering, and reconnaissance. Geiss noted that major powers are now taking action, pointing to a recent proposal by the U.S. and China to set up an AI safety alert system.

Industry and Armed Groups

UNIDIR established a Center of Excellence on AI, Peace and Security this summer with funding from the five major nuclear powers: the U.S., Russia, China, Britain, and France. The new forum will bring together actors from every relevant sector worldwide. Another initiative will focus on industry roles to create a framework for responsible behavior, following consultations with defense tech companies, software developers, subcontractors, and investors. UNIDIR is also launching an effort to address the risks of AI misuse by armed groups who are already using the technology for operational planning, execution, and logistics.

Context

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing modern technology, defense systems, and global security concerns. International organizations like the United Nations work to set global standards and bring nations together to prevent conflicts and manage new technological risks.