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Russia and US Seek to Block Binding Rules on Autonomous Weapons
Russia and the US move to block binding rules on autonomous weapons at a UN conference in Geneva this month.
Key points
- The review conference in Geneva runs from 16 to 20 November and is due to be attended by 128 countries.
- Russia, the US and Israel, among others, are pushing against a timetable for a legally binding instrument.
- A coalition of 50 states including Ireland, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, France and Germany called for a strict negotiating mandate.
Why it matters. The outcome of the Geneva review conference could determine whether states agree to negotiate a legally binding instrument on autonomous weapons within a defined timetable.
Russia and the United States are moving to block proposals to negotiate a legally binding set of rules on autonomous weapons at a UN conference in Geneva from 16 to 20 November, attended by 128 countries. A diplomatic retreat starting Friday will show the scale of opposition, according to the report. Anna Hehir of the Future of Life Institute said states have never been closer to a global agreement on AI weapons, warning that some may back endless discussions on voluntary measures.
Latest updates
Russia and US Seek to Block Binding Rules on Autonomous Weapons
Russia and the United States are seeking to block a plan for binding rules on autonomous weapons. A UN conference this month is seen as a key moment in the effort. The talks follow years of discussion on filling a gap in the governance of AI systems used in weapons. Supporters of binding rules are pushing for a legal framework rather than voluntary commitments. The outcome of the conference will determine whether the plan advances.