Ongoing Debate on AI, Autonomous Weapons, and Space Militarization

The Guardian

Today, in the Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISEC), delegates debated whether artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous weapons should be banned. This discussion later expanded to include the issue of space militarization and its potential global impact. Tensions had risen as delegates debated whether space militarization should be banned entirely or regulated and used more responsibly, underscoring the challenges of achieving international cooperation on this matter. The delegate of France had argued that “We should ban the use of weapons in space and instead focus on using our resources to improve the lives of citizens.” However, the delegate of Sweden had chosen to take a different stance, stating that “More responsible laws and limits should be added, but banning ASATs (anti-satellite weapons) would be way too extreme.” Additionally, the representative of Nigeria had responded that “Space militarization can cause much more space debris, making it harder to conduct other space missions.” As the discussions continued, it remained unclear whether the committee would reach a consensus on AI and autonomous weapons. However, it was clear that the world needed to work together quickly to address rising challenges in technology and security.

2 key questions that were raised and addressed during the session include:

• Do you think military intervention is justified in this situation?

  • The Netherlands responded: “No, because by amending the space treaty, we can ensure safe space use. The current rules are not strong enough, but military intervention is not needed.”

• Is your country prepared to support sanctions or peacekeeping efforts?

  • The Kenya delegate answered: “Yes, because Kenya has a long history of peacekeeping in cooperation with the United Nations.”

In summary, this discussion highlighted the complexities of balancing technological advancement, global security, and peaceful space use. The Guardian would like to acknowledge the five countries that contributed to and sponsored this interview: France, Sweden, Kenya, Nigeria, and the Netherlands. As the delegate of Nigeria had summarized, “To keep human civilization safe, we should ban weapon testing in space, as it can cause debris that may eventually harm humanity.” This statement emphasizes the human impact at the center of today’s debate.