Campaign groups are advocating for a binding legal framework that addresses ethical and human rights concerns, particularly regarding the use of autonomous weapons by non-state actors.

The upcoming meeting is viewed as a critical test for international cooperation, as countries prepare for further discussions scheduled for September 2025.

Although the current discussions are non-binding, they are seen as a vital step toward developing a global treaty aimed at preventing the misuse of lethal AI technologies.

Patrick Wilcken from Amnesty International emphasized the need for a legally binding treaty, citing the rapid advancements in military technology that could outpace current regulations.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has set a 2026 deadline for nations to establish clear regulations on AI weapons, but significant divisions among major powers like the U.S., China, Russia, and India are complicating progress.

The Pentagon maintains that existing laws are sufficient, arguing that autonomous weapons could potentially pose less risk to civilians compared to traditional weaponry.

Campaigners stress the importance of accountability and responsible development in the defense industry, expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of self-regulation by technology firms.

The United Nations is calling for urgent global action to regulate autonomous weapons powered by artificial intelligence, particularly in light of their increasing use in conflicts such as those in Ukraine and Gaza.

Despite ongoing discussions since 2014 under the Convention on Conventional Weapons (CCW), there are still no binding international standards in place to regulate these autonomous systems.

In 2023, a resolution supported by 164 states urged the international community to address the risks associated with autonomous weapons, although major powers prefer national guidelines over international regulations.

Human rights groups have noted that despite the urgency of the situation, consensus among governments remains elusive, hindering the establishment of necessary regulations.

The discussions and resolutions reflect a growing recognition of the need for immediate action to mitigate the risks associated with autonomous weapons.