The five main disruptive technologies listed below present opportunities for humanity but also risks of abuse and misuse by state and non-state actors:
1- Artificial Intelligence (AI),
2- Quantum computing,
3- Synthetic biology,
4- Neurosciences and Cerebral Computer Interfaces (BCI), and
5- Nanotechnologies.
Currently, no central entity provides a binding global framework in terms of ethical standards and regulations.
Why is it urgent to take action?
Digital manipulations are likely to erode trust within our societies and institutions and there is a risk of societal controls and the reinforcement of authoritarian regimes. The question of “the future of work” is also at the heart of concerns, not forgetting the use of these technologies for war purposes. As these technologies develop at an exponential pace and become easily accessible to the public, the risks of malevolence and abuse increase.
Acknowledging the urgency to act, the GSCP (Geneva Center for Security Policy) with a support grant of the Primat Foundation has organised in October 2020 a two-days High-Level Workshop on Emerging Technologies, Ethics, Security and Governance aimed specifically at key-decision makers of international institutions in Geneva.
The purpose of this high-level workshop was to convene senior decision-makers from Geneva-based international organizations and influential non-governmental organizations with leading thinkers and academics dealing with emerging technologies and reflect together on their ethical, security and governance implications.
- to be a eye-opener for International Organizations and more generally for the international community to be aware of the impacts of new technologies on society.
- to stimulate International Organizations to use their weight to influence these technological developments for the best interest of humanity.
- to create a momentum for further actions.
The Geneva Centre for Security Policy believes that effective and forward-thinking leaders and organizations need to build a broad picture of what is happening in an increasingly connected world. We unravel the intricacies of geopolitics and help leaders to develop new skills and the agility to lead in times of tumultuous change. We create an inclusive environment for our global community from 184 nations and across sectors to come together to exchange ideas and develop sustainable solutions for a more peaceful future.