Defence and Security practitioners discuss emerging military technologies and International Humanitarian Law

Kigali, 14 May 2024

Today, the representatives from African military and security agencies convened in Rwanda to raise awareness on emerging technologies used in warfare and the need to adapt to the requirements of International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

The workshop is jointly organised by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), with the participation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Rwanda National Police (RNP), Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), Rwanda Space Agency (RSA), National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA) and Rwanda Red Cross Society (RRCS). 

The workshop was also attended by security practitioners from various countries including Niger, Mali, Tanzania, Uganda and the Netherlands.

On behalf of the Ministry of Defence, The Defence and Military Spokesperson, Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga reaffirmed that Rwanda advocates for the establishment of a platform that facilitates exchanges between practitioners in these fields.

“The rapid advancements in technology, particularly in the realms of artificial intelligence, cyber warfare, autonomous weapons systems, and biotechnology, present both incredible opportunities and daunting challenges for the international community. these innovations hold the promise of enhancing military capabilities and security to enhance precision in its use to limit collateral damage. They also raise profound ethical questions and potential risks to human lives,” he said.

Mr Patrick Youssef, ICRC Regional Director of Africa emphasised that the ICRC closely follows the development of new means and methods of warfare and their use by states and assesses their foreseeable humanitarian impact; it also engages all relevant stakeholders on the applicability of IHL to these new means and methods of warfare. “ICRC believes that it can have a positive impact by raising awareness of the humanitarian, legal and military operational challenges posed by such technologies in today’s armed conflicts,” he stated.

Through its ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Defence of Rwanda, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has provided invaluable expertise and advocacy, significantly promoting respect for International Humanitarian Law and encouraging dialogue on the ethical use of military technologies.