Regional Briefings on Information and Communications Technologies and Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain

United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific (UNRCPD)The rapid rise of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies is fundamentally reshaping global security, and the Asia-Pacific region finds itself at the heart of this transformation. Home to some of the world’s most dynamic hubs of innovation, the region is driving breakthroughs with enormous potential for sustainable development. Yet these rapid advances also bring critical security challenges that demand urgent attention. This combination of innovation and vulnerability positions Asia-Pacific States as both stakeholders and potential norms setters in shaping initiatives to govern the responsible use of these technologies. 

To support States in navigating these developments, the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs – through its Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific (UNRCPD) and the Science and Technology Unit – organized two regional briefings on Science, Technology and International Security for representatives of States from Asia and the Pacific. The sessions were held in advance of the eightieth session of the First Committee of the General Assembly, scheduled for October 2025, to provide delegates with insights into substantive issues expected to feature prominently in the Committee’s upcoming deliberations.

Both sessions, identical in content, focused on two thematic areas. The first explored Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain, examining relevant General Assembly resolutions and state-led initiatives. The second addressed Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) and Security, outlining the current state of play, the key outcomes of the recently concluded Open-ended Working Group (OEWG), and the next steps, including the establishment of the new UN Global Mechanism on ICT security.

As the global security landscape continues to rapidly evolve, UNRCPD remains committed to supporting States in the region in meaningfully engaging in global disarmament discussions, including at the First Committee of the General Assembly. To advance this goal, the UNRCPD is committed to continue organizing virtual and in-person trainings and briefings on a variety of relevant topics. This includes offering practical information and opportunities for dialogue that strengthen cooperation and amplify the voices of States across the Asia-Pacific region. These sessions will continue to be designed to reach not only New York–based diplomats, but also capital-based experts and held at times more convenient for Asia-Pacific participants.

For more information, contact unrcpd-info@un.org.

“Regional Briefings on Information and Communications Technologies and Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain” – conducted via Zoom