Safeguarding Against the Rise of Artificial Intelligence: A United Nations Security Council Opportunity for Unity
For decades, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has operated as an international body designed to address threats to global security. Traditionally, the UNSC has dealt with issues related to human conflict, including attempts to assist Afghanistan by supporting a new transitional government and preventing the ownership and manufacturing of supposed weapons of mass destruction (WMD) in Iraq. However, in order to accomplish the aforementioned resolutions, UNSC members must reach a consensus. Moreover, the ability of the five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States), known as the P5, to veto a resolution can halt a unanimous decision among the 15-member assembly. Historically, the ability for absolute veto has garnered much criticism. For example, the United States has used its veto power to axe over 40 resolutions against Israel, and Russia has exercised its power to prevent membership admissions of Eastern European countries that it viewed as a threat.
The composition of the P5 complicates the UNSC’s ability to carry out its core mission of addressing threats to global security. However, despite the divide between the East and West, a new potent threat has emerged: the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). While AI holds incredible promise for innovation and progress across various sectors, its unchecked proliferation poses significant risks to international stability and security. This emerging threat presents the UNSC with a critical moment of cooperation, collaboration, and opportunity to unite for global peace and security.
With its growing ability to autonomously analyse vast amounts of data and make decisions, AI presents novel security dilemmas for the P5 and the broader international community. AI has quickly advanced the capabilities of autonomous weapons systems to cyber warfare and surveillance capabilities, which have the potential to reshape the nature of conflict and warfare. Moreover, the rapid development of AI exacerbates concerns about accountability, ethical use, and the potential for unintended consequences, including reinforcing existing inequalities and biases.
To confront these challenges effectively, the UNSC must recognise the situation's urgency and prioritise a uniform approach. Firstly, the P5 and member states must come together to establish clear norms and international regulations governing the development and deployment of AI technologies in the context of international security. This entails fostering dialogue, sharing best practices, and promoting transparency to mitigate the risks associated with AI proliferation.
Furthermore, the UNSC must address the issue of autonomous weapons systems, often referred to as lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS) or "killer robots." The development of such weapons raises profound ethical and humanitarian concerns, as their deployment could lead to indiscriminate violence and the erosion of accountability in armed conflict. A unified stance against the use of autonomous weapons, coupled with robust international regulations, is essential to prevent their proliferation and ensure adherence to established principles of international humanitarian law.
In addition to addressing the immediate challenges posed by AI-driven weapons, the UNSC must also confront AI's broader implications for global security. This includes recognising AI's potential to exacerbate existing threats, such as cyber-attacks and disinformation, as well as its role in reshaping geopolitical dynamics and power structures. By fostering interdisciplinary cooperation and engaging with relevant stakeholders, including tech companies and civil society organisations, the UNSC can develop holistic strategies to mitigate these risks while maximising the potential benefits of AI for peace and security. Additionally, the UNSC must prioritise capacity-building initiatives to enhance member states' ability to navigate the complex challenges posed by AI. This includes investing in education and training programs and fostering collaboration in research and development to ensure that all nations have the necessary tools and expertise to harness AI for the common good. Additionally, the UNSC should support initiatives to promote responsible AI governance and foster international cooperation in AI ethics and regulation.
The rise of artificial intelligence presents both unprecedented opportunities and formidable challenges for global security. As the preeminent international body tasked with maintaining peace and stability, the UN Security Council is vital in addressing this emerging threat. By uniting in purpose and action, the UNSC can pave the way for a future where AI is harnessed responsibly to advance human security and well-being rather than exacerbating conflict and instability. Now is the time for decisive leadership and collective action to ensure that the promise of AI is realised in a manner that upholds the principles of peace, justice, and equality for all.
Image courtesy of IAEA Imagebank via Wikimedia, ©2019. Some rights reserved.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the wider St. Andrews Foreign Affairs Review team.
