Autonomous Weapons Must Be Controlled Urgently

AN ISSUES BRIEF IN PREPARATION FOR THE UN SUMMIT OF THE FUTURE 2024

DATE: AUGUST 2024

Author(s):

MATILDA BYRNE

Abstract

This policy brief argues that Australia should advocate for the creation of a new legally binding instrument to address and control autonomous weapons at the UN Summit of the Future.

About the series

The UN Summit of the Future is planned for 22–23 September 2024. It will see Member States agree on a package of reforms summarised in an outcome document: the Pact for the Future, which is currently under negotiation. The University of Melbourne’s Initiative for Peacebuilding has prepared a series of policy briefs to stimulate discussion of key issues on the agenda for the Summit, with particular consideration to Australia’s role and responsibilities. Please click here for more information.

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