In this blog, the authors explore how the design and development of military AI systems influence their compliance with international humanitarian law.
By Marijn Hoijtink (University of Antwerp) & Martine Jaarsma (University of Antwerp)
As wars in Ukraine and Gaza unfold, weaponized artificial intelligence (AI) has become a reality, transforming the nature of modern warfare. AI-powered systems, such as drones and algorithmic targeting tools like Lavender, are accelerating the pace of attacks and increasing civilian harm.
While legal scholars have begun examining AI under International Humanitarian Law (IHL), much of this focus remains on deployment. This blog argues that we must look further upstream at the design processes, organizational cultures, and private sector involvement that shape these technologies before they are used. Understanding how military AI is built is just as critical as understanding how it is deployed. Read the full blog!