STATEMENT BY
H. E. MR. AMARA S. M. SOWA
AMBASSADOR/DEPUTY PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE
CHARGE D’AFFAIRES
Thank you, Mr. President,
I wish to express my sincere gratitude to Switzerland for convening this important meeting.
I thank the briefers Mr. Robin Geiss, Director of the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), Dr. Jocelyne Bloch, NeuroRestore, Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Dr. Grégoire Courtine, .NeuroRestore, iNX Institute, Faculty of life sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne, and Mr. Amin Awad, President of the Foundation Council, DCAF – Geneva Center for Security Sector Governance for their valuable contributions to today’s discussion.
The topic of “anticipating the impact of scientific development on peace and security” is both timely and highly relevant. We are encouraged that the Security Council continues to engage on this issue, which is acknowledged in the Pact for the Future and the Secretary-General’s A New Agenda for Peace. The role of science and technology in shaping international peace and security is undeniable, and it is essential for the Council to keep pace with these developments.
Sierra Leone recognizes the transformative power of science and technology in advancing human dignity, human rights, and environmental protection and sustainable development. The potential for scientific development and innovations to positively impact peace and security is considerable. However, the same scientific and technological advancements, if not regulated, abused or misused, pose significant risks to global stability.
It is for this reason that we emphasize the responsibility of the Security Council to remain informed and proactive in addressing scientific developments. Whether it is the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous weapons systems (AWS), biotechnology, or quantum technologies, the Council must ensure that such advancements are used to support, not undermine, international peace and security.
In this regard, Sierra Leone joined Switzerland and Slovenia in the media stakeout before the commencement of this meeting to call for joint action on the UN Secretary General’s New Agenda for Peace which was launched during the Presidency of Sierra Leone in August this year. One of our intentions is to work with Council members to integrate scientific knowledge into the Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace as affirmed in the Pact for the Future. Leveraging data-driven insights and the latest scientific tools, inter alia, can enhance our collective ability to anticipate and prevent conflicts.
Mr. President,
The United Nations has long recognized, dating back to the adoption of Resolution 43/77 in 1988, both the promise and challenges of scientific and technological innovations. This includes the need to establish normative frameworks that ensure safe and responsible application of these technologies for the benefit of all humanity.
On 13 June 2024, the African Union Peace and Security Council during its discussion on the topic “Looking into the Future: Artificial Intelligence and its Impact on Peace and Security in Africa,” underscored the importance of continuous dialogue and enhanced collaboration. It was emphasized that Member States, Regional Economic Communities and Regional Mechanisms (RECs/RMs), the private sector, think tanks, the African Union, the United Nations, and other stakeholders must work together to ensure a harmonized approach in harnessing the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Furthermore, the session called for the urgent development of a Global Compact on Artificial Intelligence, recognizing the need for collective international efforts to establish principles and frameworks that guide the responsible and beneficial use of AI in promoting peace and security across Africa and beyond.
Additionally, the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) has published a White Paper on Regulation and Responsible Adoption of AI in Africa. The White Paper sets out to demystify AI by providing the reader many already existing examples of AI uses in Africa and gives African governments recommendations on what their next steps should be.
Mr. President,
This past August, Council members engaged with experts from the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator, on the margins of the commemorative event of the 75th Anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, to explore the implications of rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, synthetic biology, and neurotechnology for global peace and security. This discussion highlighted the urgent need for the Council to develop strategies to manage both the risks and opportunities associated with these innovations.
In this regard, Sierra Leone wishes to make four key points:
First, scientific and technological innovations can be harnessed to meet sustainable development goals and address root causes of conflict. For example, in the Sahara-Sahel region, high-resolution satellite and machine-learning tools are being used to monitor vegetation and inform policies that address food insecurity. Similar innovations are being utilized in humanitarian settings for real-time planning and support during crises. Climate science advancements, such as adaptive crops, will continue to help mitigate conflict by addressing the challenges of food scarcity and resource competition.
Quantum technology, including quantum sensing and computing, offers both opportunities and risks. While it enhances military capabilities and problem-solving, it also raises concerns about ethical use and security threats. Similarly, the deployment of AI in robotics, drones, and human augmentation presents both humanitarian opportunities and potential harm, particularly in the areas of peacekeeping and conflict management.
Second, while scientific advancements offer immense promise, they also widen the technological gap between developed and developing nations. Barriers to access, funding, and research and development disproportionately affect poorer countries, limiting their ability to benefit from innovations. It is crucial to establish frameworks that promote equitable access to technology and ensure that all nations can participate in and benefit from scientific progress.
Third, effectively harnessing scientific innovations for peace and security requires enhanced international cooperation. The Secretary-General’s report on Current Developments in Science and Technology emphasizes the need for multilateral forums to address the potential impact of these advancements on global security. A rules-based system with compliance and accountability mechanisms is essential to regulate technologies such as nuclear power, 3D printing of weapons, and biotechnologies, which pose significant risks if misused by non-state actors.
Strengthening collaboration across borders and fostering responsible research will help mitigate these risks. Sierra Leone supports efforts to integrate science and technology into peacebuilding policies and to ensure that innovations are used for the greater good.
Finally, Mr. President Sierra Leone reaffirms its commitment to working with international partners to leverage global expertise and best practices in scientific research. We look forward to more engagement on these critical issues, particularly in the context of implementing the Pact for the Future and the Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace.
We stand ready to contribute to efforts that promote inclusive and equitable access to scientific knowledge, ensuring that all nations can benefit from and contribute to global peace and security.
I Thank you.
