ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW: REGULATING AUTONOMOUS WEAPONS ON THE BATTLEFIELD.
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Abstract
The swift progress of artificial intelligence has resulted in the development of Autonomous Weapon Systems (AWS), which raises pressing legal and humanitarian issues. This article assesses whether International Humanitarian Law (IHL) sufficiently governs AWS by utilizing a doctrinal legal approach to four fundamental principles: distinction, proportionality, precaution, and accountability. Additionally, it explores international regulatory efforts under the UN Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW). The analysis indicates that AWS face challenges in fulfilling legal criteria due to technological limitations, unpredictability, and dispersed responsibility. While states concur on the relevance of IHL, geopolitical rifts have obstructed the establishment of binding regulations. The article concludes that enhancing Article 36 weapons reviews, clarifying legal interpretations, and promoting regulatory initiatives are crucial for ensuring accountability and safeguarding civilians in future conflicts
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