Autonomous Weapon Systems Under International Law

Abstract

The article questions the compliance of autonomous weapons systems with international humanitarian law (IHL). It seeks to answer this question by analysing the application of the core principles of international humanitarian law with regard to the use of autonomous weapons systems. As part of the discussion on compliance, the article also considers the implications of riskless warfare where non-human agents are used. The article presupposes that it is actually possible for AWS to comply with IHL in very broad and general terms. However, there is a need for discussion, acceptance, and institutionalization of the interpretation for classification of AWS as well as expansion of the legal framework to cater to the advanced technology. This interpretation will also include a system for allocating and attributing responsibility for their use. The article's results will demonstrate the legal consequences of developing and employing weapon systems capable of performing important functions like target selection and engagement autonomously and the role of IHL and IHRL in regulating the use of these weapons, particularly in human control over individual assaults.