The UN Security Council, chaired by US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, has addressed the growing significance of artificial intelligence (AI) for peace and security. In New York, Thomas Gürber, the FDFA's deputy state secretary, who represented Switzerland at the debate, emphasised that the rapid progress of AI must take place within the existing framework of international law, in particular the UN Charter, international humanitarian law and human rights.
Switzerland highlighted three points in its statement:
1. Inclusive discussion on the governance of AI
The Security Council should promote a comprehensive and inclusive discussion on the regulation and governance of AI. The countries that are leading the development of AI systems bear a special responsibility in this regard. At the same time, the UN offers an important platform for developing globally coordinated approaches. The involvement of all relevant actors – both state and non-state – is crucial in this regard.
2. The potential of AI for more effective implementation of the Security Council's mandates
As a tool, AI can facilitate the implementation of Security Council mandates. Switzerland demonstrated this potential in May 2024 at an Arria-Gruppa meeting of the Council. In collaboration with the DiploFoundation in Geneva, it used an AI-based analysis tool that evaluated the data from ten Council meetings, with a particular focus on the ‘New Agenda for Peace’. Such tools can help to better substantiate decisions and to better target operational measures.
3. Promoting safe and responsible artificial intelligence
The Security Council must recognise the risks posed by AI and take preventive action. It is important to consider the impact of AI on peace and security at an early stage. Switzerland drew attention to its initiative in October 2024, which led to a briefing and a presidential statement. In it, the Security Council reaffirmed its intention to assess technological advances more systematically in order to anticipate possible implications for international security.
Thomas Gürber also highlighted the consequences of AI in crisis situations. During its two terms as president of the Security Council, Switzerland raised awareness of these challenges at the UN in New York through initiatives such as the ‘Digital Dilemmas’ and ‘Deep Fakes' exhibitions, which were organised in partnership with the ICRC. Furthermore, Switzerland is working with the UNHCR to use AI to improve the protection of refugees and displaced persons from digital risks, in particular misinformation, disinformation and hate speech.
In conclusion, Switzerland called on the Security Council to systematically incorporate the opportunities and risks associated with the further development of AI into its work and to take concrete political action.
