LAWS and Export Control Regimes: Fit for Purpose?

Abstract

Broadening the scope of regulatory options (here: outside of the CCW), this working paper links iPRAW's existing recommendations on human control in the use force to deliberations on export controls for LAWS (i.e. weapon systems with 'autonomy' in their targeting functions) and technological components relevant to LAWS. We highlight some effects of the diffusion or transfer of LAWS and the potential role of national and multilateral export control regulations as a means of mitigating the challenges related to the development and use of LAWS. We also explore the special challenges to the effective implementation of export controls on software based, data-driven technologies, in particular with regard to the general-purpose use of many of the enabling components. With that in mind, we identify and discuss how export control regimes could provide guidance to the participating states on the issue of LAWS.