Why is Human Control Over AI Essential in Military Applications?
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Synopsis
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has highlighted the critical need for human oversight of AI in military contexts. His call to action emphasizes the importance of maintaining authority over life-and-death decisions and the urgent need for global regulatory frameworks to safeguard peace and security in an AI-driven world.
Key Takeaways
- Human oversight is essential in the military application of AI.
- AI must comply with international law and the UN Charter.
- Global regulatory frameworks for AI are urgently needed.
- Collaboration among various sectors is crucial to combat AI misinformation.
- Bridging the AI capacity gap can promote sustainable development.
United Nations, Sep 25 (NationPress) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the crucial need for human oversight of artificial intelligence (AI) in relation to the use of force.
“Let’s be unequivocal: the destiny of humanity should not rest with an algorithm. Authority over life-and-death choices must remain with humans,” he stated on Wednesday (local time) during an open Security Council debate on AI's implications for international peace and security.
The Security Council alongside UN member nations must guarantee that military applications of AI adhere strictly to international law and the UN Charter. Human judgment and control are vital in every instance of force, he asserted.
AI is no longer a concept of the future; it is currently reshaping everyday life, the information landscape, and the global economy at an astonishing pace. The pertinent issue is not whether AI will impact international peace and security, but rather how the global community will influence that impact, Guterres noted.
In the absence of regulations, AI poses risks of weaponization. AI-driven cyberattacks can incapacitate or annihilate critical infrastructure within moments. The capability to fabricate and manipulate audio and video content endangers the integrity of information, exacerbates division, and may instigate diplomatic crises. Furthermore, the enormous energy and water requirements of extensive AI models, alongside competition for essential minerals, are generating new sources of tension, he cautioned.
Guterres emphasized the necessity for coherent global regulatory frameworks for AI, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Collaboration among governments, platforms, media, and civil society is essential to identify and counter AI-generated misinformation—from disinformation campaigns to deepfakes that could undermine peace processes, humanitarian efforts, and electoral integrity, he stated.
“Transparency throughout the entire AI lifecycle is vital: rapid and verified attribution of information sources and their dissemination, along with systemic safeguards to prevent AI systems from propagating misinformation and inciting violence,” he urged.
He also pointed out the need to bridge the AI capacity gap. “Technology has the potential to expedite sustainable development, promote stability and peace. We must provide opportunities for all nations to contribute to shaping our AI future.”
From nuclear disarmament to aviation safety, the international community has proactively addressed technologies that could destabilize societies by establishing rules, creating institutions, and upholding human dignity, he remarked. “The opportunity to shape AI—for peace, justice, and humanity—is dwindling. We must act promptly.”
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the delicate balance between technological advancement and ethical governance. The UN's call for human oversight in AI use, particularly in military contexts, underscores the need for international collaboration to ensure that advancements do not compromise human dignity and global stability.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is human control of AI important?
Human control of AI is vital to prevent algorithms from making life-and-death decisions, ensuring accountability and ethical governance in military applications.
What are the risks of AI in military use?
AI can be weaponized, leading to cyberattacks that may disrupt critical infrastructure, and the potential for misinformation can escalate conflicts.
What did the UN Secretary-General emphasize?
Antonio Guterres stressed the need for coherent global regulatory frameworks to manage AI's implications for international peace and security.
How can AI influence global security?
AI has the capacity to change the landscape of international relations, impacting peacekeeping efforts and humanitarian missions if not properly regulated.
What collaborations are necessary for AI governance?
Governments, tech platforms, media, and civil society must work together to combat AI-generated misinformation and ensure integrity in information dissemination.
