Global Action Plan for AI in Military: Diverse Views Emerge

Around 60 nations, including the United States, have endorsed a non-binding 'blueprint for action' on the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the military at the REAIM summit in Seoul. The initiative seeks to manage AI risks and ensure human oversight, although China has withheld support.

Around 60 nations, including the United States, endorsed a 'blueprint for action' governing the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the military at the REAIM summit in Seoul on Tuesday. However, China did not support the legally non-binding document, underscoring differing perspectives among global stakeholders.

The summit, which follows last year's event in The Hague, marks a shift towards more concrete steps, according to Netherlands Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans. This year's blueprint aims to align risk assessments, conditions of human control, and confidence-building measures, crucial amid developments like AI-enabled drones in Ukraine.

The document highlights the need to prevent AI's use in proliferating weapons of mass destruction and emphasizes maintaining human control over nuclear weapons. Despite China's reluctance, co-hosts such as the Netherlands, Singapore, Kenya, and the United Kingdom continue to foster inclusive multi-stakeholder discussions. Next steps for the initiative and future summit venues are under consideration.

(With inputs from agencies.)