President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has called on ECOWAS regional leaders to address the challenges posed by Autonomous Weapons Systems at the Regional Conference on Peace and Security in Freetown.
President Bio emphasized the importance of developing strategies to tackle the issues surrounding Autonomous Weapons Systems, stating that the conference aims to set the agenda for establishing a legally binding instrument to regulate their use.
He highlighted the potential dangers of Autonomous Weapons Systems, noting that their deployment could fundamentally alter the nature of warfare and raise questions about accountability and the protection of civilians. President Bio urged leaders to ensure that these technologies are used in a manner that upholds international law and human rights.
The UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Izumi Nakamitsu, also emphasized the implications of autonomous weapon systems on global security, human rights, and international humanitarian law. She stressed the need for urgent action to address the risks posed by advanced weapon systems.
Commissioner of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security at ECOWAS, Dr. Abdel-Fatau Musah, echoed the concerns raised at the conference, highlighting the security implications of autonomous weapon systems. He called for regulations to prevent the use of such weapons in the region.
Overall, the conference serves as a platform for regional leaders to come together, discuss, and develop a common approach towards addressing the challenges posed by Autonomous Weapons Systems, with a focus on safeguarding global peace, security, and human dignity.