WorldSecurity and defence
UN and Red Cross urge international rules on autonomous weapons systems
The United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross jointly called on countries to adopt bans and restrictions on autonomous weapons, warning that risks have intensified and that civilians must be protected.
On August 25, 2026, the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross renewed their joint appeal for countries to establish international rules on autonomous weapons systems, often called "killer robots." The appeal, which builds on an initial call made three years ago and follows years of international talks, urges bans and restrictions but stops short of demanding a complete prohibition.
The organizations warned that the risks posed by such weapons have intensified. While they noted that autonomous weapons are being developed, they said their use on the battlefield has not been confirmed. However, they emphasized the need to protect civilians for when that may occur.
A UN Geneva spokesperson warned, "We are now dangerously close to crossing a moral red line: The autonomous targeting of humans by machines."
WorldSecurity and defence
UN and Red Cross urge international rules on autonomous weapons systems
The United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross jointly called on countries to adopt bans and restrictions on autonomous weapons, warning that risks have intensified and that civilians must be protected.
On August 25, 2026, the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross renewed their joint appeal for countries to establish international rules on autonomous weapons systems, often called "killer robots." The appeal, which builds on an initial call made three years ago and follows years of international talks, urges bans and restrictions but stops short of demanding a complete prohibition.
The organizations warned that the risks posed by such weapons have intensified. While they noted that autonomous weapons are being developed, they said their use on the battlefield has not been confirmed. However, they emphasized the need to protect civilians for when that may occur.
A UN Geneva spokesperson warned, "We are now dangerously close to crossing a moral red line: The autonomous targeting of humans by machines."