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Articles

No. 3 (2024): Law & Social Bonds Nr 4 (50) 2024

Assessing the Legality of Autonomous Weapon Systems: An In-depth Examination of International Humanitarian Law Principles

DOI
https://doi.org/10.36128/PRIW.VI50.774
Submitted
October 27, 2023
Published
2024-08-21
Versions

Abstract

Although much literature has examined the legality of autonomous weapons systems (AWS), it cannot be denied that it is still a thorny topic that deserves to be researched in more depth. In the absence of international agreement, it has yet to be reached that resolves the controversy. Waiting for a new law or protocol prohibiting or regulating AWS is no longer worthwhile. The legitimacy of AWS will be examined by analyzing the potential for compliance with international humanitarian law (IHL) by using different techniques. The principles will be deeply delved into and with a unique vision. The argument in this article is to exclude the concepts of military necessity and humanitarian necessity from the list of the real IHL principles as they are two fundamental pillars rooted in distinction, proportionality, and precautions and do not accept measurement or compromise. Therefore, the possibility of AWS complying with the real IHL principles will be examined only. The article also argues that although emerging technology has not yet reached a threshold that allows reliable deployment of autonomous weapons, the present indicates that the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution is close to achieving IHL compliance and thus gaining legitimacy to be deployed in armed conflicts.

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