Disarmament in Review
Kathmandu, 6 November: The United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific (UNRCPD) hosted engineers of the Robotics Association of Nepal (RAN) to discuss responsible innovation in science and technology and its impact on peace and security.
At the meeting, UNRCPD presented two educational scenario-based exercises with a focus on issues related to big data and artificial intelligence-based “computer vision”, inviting participants to reflect on the many diverse applications of technology and the potential impact on individual, national and international security. These scenario-based exercises have been developed as an outreach activity for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) students and young professionals to encourage participants to critically think about specific ethical challenges, and responsibilities to avoid harm, of stakeholders who are involved in the research, development, commercialization and regulation of new technologies.
UNRCPD conducted this activity as part of its Responsible Innovation Dialogues project, which is linked to the third pillar of the Secretary-General’s Agenda for Disarmament. Specifically, the project responds to Action 28: “engage and work with scientists, engineers and industry to encourage responsible innovation of science and technology, to ensure its application for peaceful purposes, as well as the responsible dissemination of knowledge, in conformity with the principles and objectives of the United Nations”.
The Responsible Innovation Dialogues are also designed to contribute to three targets of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: Target 4.7 on ensuring that all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development; Target 5.5 on ensuring women’s full and effective participation; and Target 16.7 on ensuring responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels.
For further information on UNRCPD’s responsible innovation activities, please contact Ms. Jane E. Lawson, Peace and Disarmament Education Coordinator for Asia and Pacific (jane.lawson@un.org), and Mr. Charles Ovink, Associate Political Affairs Officer (charles.ovink@un.org).
