Scientific Panel on AI and Peacebuilding

The Problem

In recent years, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have shown promise in addressing complex global challenges, including those related to peacebuilding and conflict resolution. AI technologies offer innovative tools and approaches for understanding conflict dynamics, predicting potential conflicts, facilitating mediation and negotiation processes, and supporting post-conflict reconstruction and reconciliation efforts. At the same time, the use of AI in conflict settings raises concerns about transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights. While AI tools may transform peacebuilding, they are also in the toolkit for violence and repression, so there is a need for rigorous scientific inquiry and evidence-based research to understand the opportunities, challenges, and ethical implications associated with the use of AI in this context.

The IPIE's Approach

The primary objective of the Scientific Panel on AI and Peacebuilding is to produce a technical paper that examines the current state of research, identifies key trends and developments, and provides recommendations for leveraging AI technologies effectively and responsibly in peacebuilding efforts. Specifically, the panel aims to:

• Review existing literature, case studies, and initiatives on the application of AI for conflict and peacebuilding, including its potential benefits, risk, and limitations.
• Examine the ethical, legal (human rights), and social implications of using AI in conflict settings, with a focus on issues such as bias, transparency, accountability, and privacy, taking into account the ambivalent and ambiguous nature of technology.
• Identify promising AI techniques and methodologies for conflict analysis, prevention, resolution, and post-conflict reconstruction.
• Review and identify best practices for AI in peacebuilding (do no-harm approach / conflict sensitivity)  
• Identify preventive approaches, including digital literacy and awareness raising among peacebuilding actors and the general public.  
• Assess the role of AI in supporting inclusive and participatory approaches to peacebuilding, including the involvement of local communities and marginalized groups.
• Provide evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers to harness the potential of AI for peacebuilding while mitigating risks and safeguarding human rights.