Under the auspices of the REMIT Research project, Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) hosted an event on April 17th, 2024, welcoming David van Weel, NATO Assistant Secretary General for Innovation, Hybrid, and Cyber, alongside Marijn Hoijtink, Research Professor in International Relations at the University of Antwerp, for an engaging discussion on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in warfare, attracting a diverse audience, predominantly students.

Mr. van Weel, addressing approximately 100 attendees, provided an in-depth exploration of the contemporary landscape of warfare and the transformative impact of AI on its dynamics. Drawing from real-world examples, including the war in Ukraine, the NATO Assistant Secretary General elucidated how AI technologies have reshaped warfare, granting smaller forces asymmetrical advantages over their larger adversaries. He emphasized the imperative for the responsible development and use of AI-enabled weapons, highlighting NATO’s collaborative initiatives with allies, industry experts, and partners to establish common regulations and frameworks aligned with international law.

Subsequently, Marijn Hoijtink offered her insights on Mr. van Weel’s lecture. In her remarks, Prof. Hoijtink scrutinized the involvement of Israeli military startups in the deployment of AI technologies such as facial recognition and automated image categorization during the war in Gaza. She stressed the necessity for diplomatic endeavors and global governance to formulate frameworks for the responsible use of AI in warfare, necessitating the involvement of both state actors and industry partners. Prof. Hoijtink urged European nations, particularly the Netherlands, to actively engage in these initiatives. Furthermore, she underscored the significance of infusing values and norms into AI policies, advocating for collaborative efforts encompassing diverse expertise to address ethical concerns.

The event culminated in an interactive Q&A session with the audience, followed by reflections from the speakers. Dr. Michal Onderco, Professor of International Relations at EUR, introduced and moderated the lecture. Reflecting on the event, Prof. Onderco expressed his satisfaction, noting, “This was a great event. It ended up raising more critical questions than I had originally expected, and we ended up having a very illuminating discussion.”

A recording is available for viewing at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3abG_nZozMg

Photo credit: ©Arie Kers

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