United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research

Cloud computing has become a foundational element of the global digital economy, driving unprecedented innovation and connectivity. But even as we embrace the benefits, we must also consider potential risks, particularly to international security. UNIDIR’s latest report explores this transformative technology, offering insights into its use cases, benefits and risks. It also highlights key governance challenges and examines the implications for arms control and international security. 📘 Read the report or the summary brief: https://lnkd.in/diHGMYFA

"We are seeing increasingly costly and disruptive ransomware attacks, with over one billion dollars paid out in ransom in 2023 alone, the highest number ever recorded." – Robin Geiß, UNIDIR Director. The 2024 UNIDIR Cyber Stability Conference brought together global leaders, policymakers and experts to explore ways to tackle growing cyber threats to international peace and security. We’ve put together some of the highlights and key takeaways here, but you can also catch up on the whole event on our YouTube channel 🎥👇 🔗 bit.ly/3P7W1R8

We recently released the Draft Guidelines for the Development of a National Strategy on AI in Security and Defence, designed to help States and non-state actors responsibly develop, deploy and use AI in this critical domain. As we want to ensure that the Guidelines reflect the full diversity of perspectives on this issue, we are currently seeking feedback from stakeholders across all sectors. Once you’ve read the Guidelines (unidir.org/AiDraftGuide), you can share your insights at: bit.ly/3YFLa5l But today we also want to hear your thoughts on one particularly pressing question. Choose your answer below! ⬇️ We’d also love to hear the reasons for your choice in the comments. 🗨️

Synthetic data has been proposed as a solution to a number of data-related challenges, particularly in the training of AI models. But what governance challenges does this technology present, particularly in the context of international security? UNIDIR's Security and Technology Programme recently explored this question in a seminar on synthetic data and its challenges for global governance. Our new report summarizes the key themes and takeaways from the event, laying out the opportunities, risks and implications for global governance. 📙 Read the full report: https://lnkd.in/dVT-NC6n

Banditry violence is rampant in North West Nigeria. While the region has long been affected by banditry, community members report that attacks have become both more frequent and more violent in recent years. These escalating threats are reshaping daily life, with profound impacts on both economic stability and social cohesion. Our new brief explores the experiences and perceptions of affected communities, as well as highlighting banditry’s far-reaching consequences for the region. 📘 Read the full brief: unidir.org/BanditryNigeria

The rise of malicious cyber activities targeting critical infrastructure that delivers essential services across borders poses a growing threat to societies around the world. Join the UNIDIR Open Forum at the Internet Governance Forum 2024 (#IGF2024) to hear from experts and policymakers as they explore the evolving threat landscape, share lessons learned and identify pathways to safeguard vital services across regions and sectors. Key discussion points: 🔷 #Cyber threats to transnational critical infrastructure and their impact on international security 🔷 Policy responses, best practises and lessons for protection of critical infrastructure 🔷 Opportunities for strengthening global collaboration 📅 18 December 2024, 11:00 - 12:15 AST (09:00 – 11:15 CET) 📍 King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and online 🔗 unidir.org/SafeguardCyber

Weapons facilitate gender-based violence that injures and kills women. Listen to UNIDIR researcher Hana Salama explain how controlling small arms and light weapons can help prevent gender-based violence and conflict-related sexual violence. #NoExcuse #GBV

How does the UNIDIR Women in AI Fellowship create a lasting impact? For 2024 Fellow Paula Peraza Aguilar (Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations in Geneva), it does it by helping women build meaningful connections and create a strong and diverse network dedicated to shaping the future of disarmament and AI. 📰 Learn more: unidir.org/action-AI-bias

We are #hiring! Our Conventional Arms and Ammunition Programme is looking for an Associate Researcher to join us in Geneva and support our work on strengthening weapons and ammunition management. As an Associate Researcher, you will: 🔷 Assist in conducting policy-relevant research and analysis. 🔷 Help to disseminate policy-relevant research findings and advisory support. 🔷 Support programme planning and organization. 🗓️ Apply by 3 January 2025! 🔗 unidir.org/CAAPRAssoc

People exiting Boko Haram factions in the Lake Chad Basin face significant reintegration challenges. These include unmet basic needs, climate-related livelihood challenges and continued insecurity. Our new brief, drawing on in-depth qualitative research in Cameroon, Chad and Nigeria, explores the needs of individuals formerly associated with Boko Haram and of the communities to which they return. 📘 Read the full report: unidir.org/NeedsBokoHaram