For years, the discussion around artificial intelligence (AI) and international peace and security has centred almost exclusively on military applications, such as autonomous weapons systems. However, advances in civilian AI could also undermine international peace and security in many ways. This report explores the risks that advances in AI in the civilian domain could present to international peace and security, and how such risks can be addressed through responsible innovation.

The report builds on desk research and insights gathered from a series of activities that the authors organized between 2022 and 2025 as part of a joint initiative by SIPRI and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs on promoting responsible innovation in AI for international peace and security, which was funded by a decision of the Council of the European Union (Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/2269 of 18 November 2022).

Table of contents

Introduction
Mapping the risks that civilian AI poses to international peace and security
Responsible innovation practice in the AI community
How states and international organizations can support responsible
Key findings
Recommendations

Introduction