Source: ICRC Law and Policy Blog

The article explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in military decision-making and the ethical concerns surrounding its use. It highlights the increasing reliance on AI in warfare, from autonomous weapons to intelligence analysis, and questions whether AI can—or should—replace human judgment in life-or-death situations.

One of the main concerns is the lack of human emotions in AI-driven decisions. While AI can process vast amounts of data quickly and execute military strategies with precision, it lacks moral reasoning, empathy, and the ability to weigh ethical consequences in complex scenarios.

The article argues that human emotions, often viewed as a weakness in decision-making, play a critical role in preventing unnecessary violence and ensuring that military actions align with humanitarian principles. The fear is that fully autonomous AI systems could make irreversible and ethically problematic decisions without accountability.

Legal experts warn that AI-powered military systems must comply with international humanitarian law, which mandates principles like proportionality and distinction between combatants and civilians. There is an urgent need for policies and regulations to ensure that AI remains under human control in warfare.

The discussion also touches on the psychological impact of AI-driven warfare, particularly on soldiers who may struggle with ethical dilemmas when collaborating with AI systems. The article concludes by emphasizing that while AI can enhance military efficiency, it must not replace human oversight in making ethical decisions on the battlefield.