Military armed forces are exploring increasingly sophisticated artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities for military use. One of the most widespread military applications of AI is in ‘decision support systems’ (DSS) that can inform, and significantly influence, decisions on the use of force in armed conflict. These systems can offer important operational benefits for armed forces but also have significant implications for compliance with international humanitarian law (IHL).
Over the past two years, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Geneva Academy have brought together legal, military, and technical experts to explore these issues. Two publications launched in 2024 – the Expert Consultation Report on Artificial Intelligence and Related Technologies in Military Decision-Making on the Use of Force in Armed Conflicts produced jointly by the Geneva Academy and the ICRC, and a report titled Decisions, Decisions, Decisions by Arthur Holland Michel – captured emerging insights and concerns around the growing role of AI in military decision-making. Building on this work, in April 2025 the ICRC submitted its contribution to the UN Secretary-General pursuant to General Assembly Resolution 79/239, setting out 16 preliminary recommendations for the responsible development and use of AI-enabled decision-support systems in armed conflict.
Drawing on ongoing dialogue with technologists, industry, and States, this event will serve as an opportunity to launch the ICRC’s preliminary recommendations and start an international discussion on how these could help guide future choices.
- International sign language interpretation will be provided at this event. -