GGE on lethal autonomous weapons systems adopts 2023 report
The 2023 GGE on emerging technologies in the area of lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS) finalised its work by adopting a report which outlines, among other issues, that states must ensure compliance with their obligations under international law throughout the lifecycle of weapon systems based on emerging technologies in the area of LAWS.
The 2023 Group of Governmental Experts (GGE) on emerging technologies in the area of lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS) concluded its work with the adoption of a report during its second session (15–19 May 2023). According to the advance version of the final report (CCW/GGE.1/2023/2), the GGE concluded that when characterising weapon systems built from emerging technologies in the area of LAWS, it is crucial to consider the potential future developments of these technologies. The group also affirmed that states must observe particular compliance with international humanitarian law throughout the life cycle of such weapon systems. States should limit the types of targets and the duration and scope of operations with which the weapon systems can engage; adequate training must be given to human operators. In cases where the weapon system based on technologies in the area of LAWS cannot comply with international law, the system must not be deployed.
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