Autonomous Weapons: Vienna Takes a Step Toward International Regulation, but Progress is Slow

The international community is meeting in Vienna to discuss the concerns surrounding the use of autonomous weapons equipped with artificial intelligence. For over a decade, experts have been debating regulations for these weapons, but they have not reached a consensus on binding international standards.

The debate is centered around not only the risks posed by autonomous weapons, but also the legal responsibilities associated with their use. Major powers like the United States, China, India, and Russia have differing views on regulation, making it difficult to find agreement in an increasingly polarized world.

Costa Rica’s Foreign Minister, Arnoldo André Tinoco, is advocating for regional regulations on autonomous weapons. He stressed the need to create awareness of the dangers posed by these weapons and the importance of drafting an international convention to regulate them.

Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, president of the International Red Cross, expressed concerns about the potential loss of human control over the use of violence through the development of AI in weapons systems. She emphasized the importance of international regulation, even if some large countries do not participate.

At the conclusion of the conference, a summary of the discussions will be published to highlight key points necessary for future legal instruments to regulate autonomous weapons. It is clear that action is needed to address challenges posed by advancements in AI technology in military systems.