31 May 2024                                                                  

Background

The preceding year, 2023, stands delineated as a period marked by the escalation of international crises, notably the protracted conflict in Ukraine spanning almost two years, the Israel-Hamas war that erupted in October, the Burkina Faso conflict, and the unrest attributed to armed groups in Nigeria, along with the oppressive regime prevailing in Myanmar.[1] These protracted armed conflicts and tensions between nations and non-state entities have reached a critical juncture, emblematic of a significant international peace crisis.

Against the backdrop of these challenges to international security and peace, the 2023 Davos Forum has judiciously chosen the overarching theme of “Rebuilding Trust” under the sub-theme of “Achieving Security and Cooperation in a Fractured World.” The Forum advocates for global leaders to “collaborate and make judicious and resolute decisions” in order to effectively address the intricate issues arising from a globally fractured landscape.[2]

Moreover, the forum has introduced another sub-theme, “Artificial Intelligence as a Driving Force for the Economy and Society,” accentuating the rapidly expanding scope and influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on a global scale. It underscores the potential for innovative problem-solving across diverse sectors, including economics, industry, education, and environmental considerations, through the strategic application of AI.

The potential of AI technology transcends the realm of mere economic and industrial innovation, extending into the domain of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Recent discourse has been actively centered around innovative approaches employing AI in international peacebuilding efforts. For instance, the United Nations has effectively employed AI-based algorithm technology to aggregate real-time feedback from conflict zones and stakeholders, thereby contributing to conflict resolution efforts grounded in democratic principles. In Yemen, citizens participated in online hearings through internet platforms, enabling AI analysis to capture real-time perspectives on conflicts stemming from the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Libya, AI platforms have been instrumental in gathering opinions on the UN’s proposed interim government, a decade after the cessation of conflicts in North Africa.[3]

Furthermore, AI technologies are instrumental in analyzing the frequency of hate speech and politically charged content on the internet and social media. This analytical capability aids in predicting regions and vulnerable groups where conflicts are likely to emerge within the next six months. Various AI technologies, including mapping services, are being judiciously applied to analyze data pertaining to disaster and conflict risk factors, thereby facilitating precise delineation of regions on a map for effective peacebuilding initiatives.

However, apprehensions have been raised regarding the ethical risks associated with AI technologies, encompassing advanced information manipulation and the propagations of false information, potentially leading to the escalation of conflicts. As a measured response, the sessions at the Jeju Forum this year are poised to meticulously examine the role of AI technology in international peacebuilding efforts. Eminent experts in the field will be invited to share pertinent success stories, fostering a platform for discussions that critically analyze the ethical risks associated with the deployment of AI technology.

Overview

Event Objectives

 This Workshop will:

●       Disseminate pioneering insights regarding the opportunities and obstacles inherent in the synergy between AI and peacebuilding to delegates from the Asia Pacific region.

●       Offer a venue to facilitate meaningful dialogue regarding the strategic utilization of AI within the realm of peacebuilding.

Inquiries

Program1

*The above program is subject to change.