AI in Warfare & International Humanitarian Law

Introduction to the Course

Course Objectives

• Understand the basic tenets of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and its applicability in contemporary warfare.
• Acquire knowledge about the integration of AI technology in military strategies, such as autonomous weapons and surveillance.
• Gain knowledge about the legal and moral complexities arising from the deployment of autonomous systems in a warfare scenario.
• Learn the nuances of accountability, proportionality, and distinction in the context of AI technology and military applications.
• Analyze the implications of AI technology in warfare on the protection of civilians, combatants, and the environment.
• Develop the skill to critically evaluate the compatibility of AI technology with the principles of IHL and its implications on international security.

What Will You Learn (Modules)

Module 1 – The Intersection of AI and International Humanitarian Law

• Lecture: “Analyzing Geneva Convention Gaps: The Case of Turkish Kargu Drones in Libya” – Understand the gaps in the Geneva Convention with real-world case studies like the deployment of autonomous drones in Libya.
• Case Study: “Reviewing UN Reports on Autonomous Weapons Systems” – Explore reports from the UN that discuss the rise of Autonomous Weapons Systems (AWS) and their implications for global security.

Module 2 – Ethical Considerations and Accountability Mechanisms

• Simulation: “UN Security Council Debate on AI Arms Moratorium” – Participate in a simulation of a UN debate on implementing a global moratorium on autonomous weapons systems.
• Activity: “Drafting ‘Human Oversight’ Clauses for Military AI Applications” – Work on drafting clauses that ensure human oversight in the use of AI in military applications, promoting ethical decision-making and accountability.

Module 3 – Bridging Technology, Law, and Ethics

• Collaboration: “Opportunities for Co-authoring with ICRC Experts” – Collaborate with experts from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to explore interdisciplinary solutions that protect human rights in the context of modern warfare.

Who Should Take This Course?

This course is ideal for:

• Legal professionals working in international law, human rights, or military law
• Military personnel interested in understanding the integration of AI into modern warfare and its legal implications
• Policymakers and regulators involved in the governance and regulation of AI technologies in military settings
• Researchers in ethics, security studies, and technology law

Job Opportunities

After completing this course, learners can pursue roles such as:

• International Law Consultant (AI and Warfare)
• AI Ethics Specialist (Military Applications)
• Policy Advisor (AI and International Security)
• Military Technologist (AI Integration)

Why Learn With Nanoschool?

At NanoSchool, we focus on career-relevant learning that builds real capability—not just theory.

• Expert-led training: Learn from instructors with real-world experience in applying skills to industry and research problems.
• Practical & hands-on approach: Build skills through guided activities, templates, and task-based learning you can apply immediately.
• Industry-aligned curriculum: Course content is designed around current tools, workflows, and expectations from employers.
• Portfolio-ready outcomes: Create outputs you can showcase in interviews, academic profiles, proposals, or real work.
• Learner support: Get structured guidance, clear learning paths, and support to stay consistent and finish strong.

Key outcomes of the course

Upon completion, learners will be able to:

• In-depth knowledge of the intersection of AI technologies and International Humanitarian Law
• Skill to analyze the ethical and legal implications of autonomous weapons and other AI-driven military systems
• Knowledge to understand accountability and responsibility for AI actions in warfare
• Readiness to contribute to policy-making and regulation of AI in military applications
• Knowledge of IHL principles in the age of advanced technologies