This article explores the challenges posed by Autonomous Weapon Systems (AWS) to International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in modern warfare. It traces a historical trajectory from early automated weapons in the 19th century through to cutting-edge developments like unmanned combat aerial vehicles and lethal autonomous robotics, providing context for the current state of AWS technology and its rapid evolution. The essay grapples with questions of how AWS can reliably distinguish between combatants and civilians in complex, dynamic battlefield environments, and how they can be programmed to make proportionality calculations that have traditionally relied on human judgment. The article wrestles with the thorny issue of attributing responsibility and maintaining accountability for actions taken by AWS. In a world where machines make autonomous decisions, determining liability for potential war crimes or IHL violations becomes incredibly complex. Additionally, the essay highlights the current legal gaps and uncertainties regarding AWS regulation.
December 5, 2025