A structure for regulating ‘autonomy’ in weapons systems

In a short paper, Article 36 outlines a structure for the regulation of weapons that use sensors and target profiles as a basis for determining when and where force should be applied.  This structure frames the issues of concern within a broad outer category.  Within that broad category, we argue that certain types of system-functioning should be prohibited. The remainder should be subject to positive obligations, in order to preserve a meaningful form of human... Read more

Struggling for meaning at the CCW

The High Contracting Parties to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW) and other stakeholders met last week in Geneva for their annual exchange of views.  States parties’ exalted aims are to prevent civilian harm and unnecessary suffering by prohibiting and restricting the use of certain conventional weapons, thereby contributing to progress in disarmament and the realization of the aspiration of all peoples to live in peace. But much of the debate focused on the... Read more

Autonomous weapons: targeting people should be prohibited

Autonomous weapons systems (AWS) raise fundamental ethical concerns. Especially the direct targeting of human beings has been widely criticized as inhumane and an affront to human dignity. On the occasion of the Meeting of High Contracting Parties to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW) which takes  place in Geneva this week, our most recent policy note: identifies a range of concerns raised by the targeting of people through AWS argues for a prohibition on... Read more

Global call for bold action on the environment, peace and security

To mark the UN’s International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict, Article 36 joins a group of 102 civil society organizations and independent experts from over 30 countries in calling on the international community to take bold actions before, during and after armed conflicts to protect people and ecosystems. Environmental degradation threatens peace and security while conflicts can have a devastating impact on ecosystems, human health and livelihoods.... Read more