AI for Human Security: Capturing Positive Stories ‘with a Pinch of Salt’?

Location: Eßlinggasse 9/6, 1010 Vienna, Austria & Online (via Zoom)

The role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of humanity remains contested, as it holds the promise of progress but also raises numerous concerns.

In this context, the International Telecommunications Union will host the 8th session of “AI for Good” next year, a global summit bringing together over forty UN agencies and supported by major tech companies such as Microsoft and Huawei. Although the programme largely leaves out the application of AI in traditional security, many of the developments in areas such as healthcare, agriculture and environment might nonetheless contribute to more human-centred and holistic notions of security.

There are initiatives that may hint at AI’s positive potential: through its ability to process large volumes of data, AI can help detect emerging risks of resource-related conflict - as demonstrated by the Early Action & Risk Tracking Hub (eEARTH), recently launched by International Crisis Group. It can also warn against worsening risks to public health, such as Malaria, by identifying certain environmental patters. During humanitarian missions, AI can reduce harm to personnel, as seen in Ukraine with demining operations and it may, as some claim, increase target accuracy and minimise collateral damage in armed conflict.            

Yet, as we consider these possibilities, we keep sight of the critical perspectives that question the assumptions that underline the “AI for good” narrative. Experts and activists warn particularly of the risks of dehumanisation, the reinforcement of bias, and the rapid spread of disinformation that threatens social cohesion. Moreover, Big Tech’s dominance in shaping these “positive” accounts around AI provide an additional reason for caution for some. In a recent video essay produced by our Unit, we unpack some of the above points in the context of debates around the regulation of autonomous weapons systems. 

Artificial intelligence is developing rapidly and, importantly, is here to stay. Hence, with this discussion we aim to further explore the tension between reserved optimism and outright mistrust of positive effects of AI on the dignity of individuals and communities in the current system; and to ask how it can be developed, governed, and even reimagined to strengthen rather than threaten human security.

Speakers:

• Joana Varon, Executive Directress and Creative Chaos Catalyst at Coding Rights (online)
• Walter Kemp, Director of Communications, Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime
• Ulysse Richard, Consultant, Science, Technology & International Security Unit, UN Office for Disarmament Affair (online) 
• Margaux Pimond, Project Manager, Climate, Environment and Conflict International Crisis Group - eEARTH (online)
• Moderated by Dr. Siavash Eshghi, Program Coordinator, Global Unit for Human Security - Heinrich Böll Foundation

Please make sure to register by Wednesday, 12 November 2025 and join us for lunch from 13h ahead of the start of the discussion on the day of the event. 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact giorgi.ptskialadze@at.boell.org 

You will receive more details and the Zoom link for virtual participation after registration.