Regulating Artificial Intelligence In Warfare: Challenges To International Humanitarian Law And The Need For Global Legal Frameworks
- IJLLR Journal
- May 3
- 2 min read
M. Koperumdevi, BA. LLB. LLM, Advocate in Cuddalore District Court
ABSTRACT
The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies has significantly transformed modern warfare, raising complex legal, ethical and humanitarian concerns. Autonomous and semi-autonomous military systems, particularly Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems (LAWS), are increasingly capable of selecting and engaging targets with minimal or no human intervention. While these technological developments promise enhanced operational efficiency and reduced risks for military personnel, they simultaneously challenge the foundational principles of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). Existing legal frameworks, including the Geneva Conventions, were primarily designed to regulate human decision-making during armed conflict and therefore struggle to address situations where autonomous systems perform critical combat functions. This research examines the compatibility of AI-driven warfare with core IHL principles such as distinction, proportionality and military necessity, highlighting the legal ambiguities surrounding accountability and responsibility when autonomous weapons cause unintended harm to civilians or civilian infrastructure. The study further analyses the ongoing international debates concerning the regulation of autonomous weapons, particularly within platforms such as the United Nations and humanitarian bodies like the International Committee of the Red Cross. By evaluating the limitations of current legal mechanisms, this paper argues that the absence of clear international regulations creates a governance gap that could undermine civilian protection and ethical conduct in warfare. The research ultimately emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive global legal framework that establishes clear standards for the development, deployment and accountability of AI-enabled weapons systems. Strengthening international cooperation and legal oversight will be essential to ensure that technological innovation in warfare remains consistent with humanitarian values and international legal obligations.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence in Warfare; International Humanitarian Law; Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems; Accountability in Armed Conflict; Global Legal Regulation.
