Autonomous weapon systems (AWS), often referred to in popular discourse as “killer
robots,”
are among the most innovative yet controversial technological developments in modern
warfare. These systems, operated by artificial intelligence, are capable of independently
identifying targets, making decisions, and executing armed interventions without human
involvement. The deployment of such systems fundamentally challenges the traditional
role of
human control in military operations and introduces new dimensions to the legal and
ethical
evaluation of warfare. This presentation aims to provide a comprehensive analysis
of the
operation, deployment, and potential regulation of AWS, with particular emphasis on
the role
of human decision-making and the integration of these technologies within the framework
of
international humanitarian law. Special attention is given to the question of how
machine
decision-making can be aligned with the protection of human rights and adherence to
ethical
standards. The presentation also delves into the issue of legal responsibility: who
can be held
accountable for harm caused by autonomous systems, and what legal mechanisms can ensure
accountability. Ultimately, the presentation seeks to explore how meaningful human
control,
along with moral and legal oversight, can be preserved in the face of rapidly advancing
technological capabilities.
