THE LAW OF ARMED CONFLICT AND AUTONOMOUS WEAPONS: THE RELEVANCE OF INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW IN THE AGE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Abstract

This paper examines the shortcomings of existing International  Humanitarian Law (IHL) in governing autonomous weapons systems 
(AWS), emphasizing significant issues with the concepts of accountability,  proportionality, and distinction. The study finds important gaps in IHL by  examining case studies, state submissions, and academic opinion. These  gaps include the difficulties in assigning blame for illegal acts and the absence of efficient oversight procedures for AWS implementation. The report suggests a thorough strategy to remedy these shortcomings, which includes developing a unique legal framework for AWS, guaranteeing  significant human oversight, modernizing weapons review procedures, and  promoting global agreement through continuous multilateral dialogues.  These suggestions seek to protect humanitarian ideals and guarantee that  AWS is applied in future conflicts in accordance with accepted legal norms.