CyberPax '24
CyberPax 2024 is an avant-garde high level panel discussion strategically designed to catalyze crucial dialogue at the nexus of artificial intelligence (AI), law, and geopolitics. As the global community grapples with escalating polarities and the swift march of AI advancements, the specter of a new kind of global conflict looms—one not fought with traditional weaponry, but with the sophisticated machinations of AI and technology. This evolving landscape underscores an urgent imperative: the regulation of these potent tools, which are alarmingly accessible to even the youngest among us.
A JV Legal x GeoJurisToday collaboration, held at the Civil Services Officers' Institute on 8th of September, the event aimed to address critical issues such as hybrid warfare, cybercrime, and AI governance, highlighting their profound impact on global security and relations. The high level panel discussion served as a platform for critical discussions on the evolving legal landscape in the age of artificial intelligence and its implications for global governance.
Our Aim: -
CyberPax 2024 aspires to confront these challenges head-on, fostering essential discourse on the regulatory and ethical dimensions of AI as a contemporary instrument of power.
What Happened at CyberPax' 24
Nyayaशास्त्र proudly served as the Content Partner for CyberPax 2024, playing a pivotal role in the development and curation of insightful content that significantly enriched the discussions. Our dedicated team collaborated closely with the organizers of the high-level panel discussions, ensuring that the themes and topics addressed not only resonated with the current landscape but also reflected the latest trends and challenges in AI, law, and geopolitics.
We conducted extensive research to identify key issues that are shaping the legal and geopolitical environment, such as the regulatory implications of AI technologies, ethical considerations in their deployment, and the evolving role of international law in governing these advancements. By integrating expert opinions and diverse perspectives, we aimed to foster a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding these critical subjects.
Moreover, our team facilitated the preparation of engaging discussion materials, including articles, briefs, and multimedia content, to stimulate thoughtful dialogue among participants. We were committed to ensuring that the panels were not only informative but also interactive, encouraging active participation from attendees.
Through our partnership in CyberPax 2024, Nyayaशास्त्र aimed to empower legal professionals, scholars, and students alike to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of technology and law. By highlighting innovative solutions and collaborative approaches, we sought to inspire new ideas and strategies that can address the pressing challenges at the intersection of AI and geopolitics.
The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including former ambassadors, retired JAG officers, esteemed academicians, deans from leading law schools, retired wing commanders, sitting DCPs, and prominent Supreme Court advocates. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking panel discussions, exploring the intersection of technology, law, and international relations.
Anchored by Vibhor Srivastava, CyberPax 2024 gathered luminaries in the respective fields for a high-level panel discussion on the legal and geopolitical challenges posed by AI (Artificial Intelligence).
Retired Maj. Gen. Praveen Kumar underscored the significant impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on modern warfare, particularly within hybrid warfare, where states employ a mix of military and non-military tactics, such as cyber operations and disinformation campaigns, to achieve objectives without open conflict. He cited the Russia-Ukraine conflict as a key example of AI's role in cyberattacks and misinformation, complicating the distinction between peace and war.
Sir also highlighted the threat of deepfake technology, which can manipulate public perception and escalate conflicts. He noted the competitive global landscape in AI advancements, with the U.S. and China leading in defense technologies, while India makes progress but needs to remain competitive. To address these challenges, he recommended establishing a Directorate of Artificial Intelligence (DAI) in India, developing strong data management systems, and creating ethical guidelines for AI use in military contexts.
Retd. Wing Commander Praful Bakshi followed, illuminating the critical shift toward cyberwarfare and its profound implications for defense systems, particularly in the context of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). His well-structured presentation detailed how the evolving landscape of warfare necessitates a re-examination of existing legal frameworks to address the challenges posed by cyber operations.
Furthermore, he emphasized the necessity for clear guidelines within IHL to govern cyber operations, ensuring that they align with the principles of distinction and necessity. By drawing parallels between conventional warfare and cyber engagements, Bakshi advocated for an urgent dialogue among legal experts, military strategists, and policymakers to develop comprehensive legal responses that adequately address the complexities of modern conflicts.
Through his insights, Sir underscored the need for nations to adapt their defense strategies and legal frameworks to encompass the realities of cyberwarfare, ensuring that humanitarian considerations remain at the forefront of military operations in the digital age.
IPS Officer Nidhin Valsan highlighted the growing threat of cybercrime, particularly the use of AI-powered chatbots to manipulate individuals into divulging sensitive information. He cited scams on platforms like Telegram, where victims are tricked into making payments, often losing large sums of money.
Sir emphasized that financial greed and ignorance make people vulnerable to these attacks. He recommended proactive measures such as public awareness and education to prevent cybercrime, stressing that prevention is key. While recognizing the risks of AI, he also advocated for its positive potential, urging a balanced approach to AI integration in society.
Advocate on Record, Mr. Jayesh Unnikrishnan delved into the critical gaps in cyber law, emphasizing how these deficiencies disproportionately impact human rights, especially for marginalized communities. He highlighted that existing laws often fail to address the complexities of online discrimination, data privacy, and cyber harassment. Marginalized groups, including women, ethnic minorities, and the economically disadvantaged, are particularly vulnerable to cybercrimes such as online abuse, identity theft, and data breaches.
Sir pointed out that the legal framework is often reactive, rather than proactive, leaving individuals with limited recourse when their rights are violated online. He stressed the urgent need for laws that not only protect fundamental rights in the digital space but also provide equitable access to justice for all communities, regardless of their socio-economic background. Furthermore, he called for legal reforms that include a more nuanced understanding of digital privacy, data protection, and the challenges posed by emerging technologies, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of society are not left behind.
Prof. Dr. Bharti Chhiber explored the intersection of multilateralism and AI governance with gender and climate change, emphasizing the need for inclusive and equitable frameworks. She explained that multilateral institutions play a critical role in shaping AI policies that can either exacerbate or mitigate global inequalities, particularly those related to gender and environmental justice.
Dr. Chhiber highlighted that women, especially in developing nations, often face disproportionate risks due to climate change and are underrepresented in discussions about AI governance. This gender imbalance in decision-making processes leads to policies that fail to address the unique challenges women encounter in accessing technology and adapting to environmental changes. Prof. Chhiber called for greater collaboration among nations to create AI policies that prioritize inclusivity and sustainability, recognizing that both gender equality and climate action are key to building a just and equitable future.
Prof. (Dr.) Rashmi Salpekar, Dean of Vivekananda School of Law and Legislative Studies, VIPS-TC, delved into the role academic institutions can play in shaping AI policy, particularly in conflict zones. She emphasized that universities and research centers are pivotal in developing frameworks for responsible AI use, especially in regions affected by instability and violence.
By engaging in policy advocacy, conducting field research, and offering expert analysis, academic institutions can provide evidence-based recommendations for the development of AI policies that prioritize human security and peace-building efforts. Dr. Salpekar also suggested that academia can help train the next generation of policymakers and technologists to navigate the complex challenges posed by AI in conflict zones, ensuring that AI's deployment in these areas is both ethically sound and aligned with international humanitarian law.
Dr. Manoj Gorkela delivered a compelling address on privacy and national security concerns, speaking in Hindi to resonate with a broader audience and ensure his message reached the masses effectively. His decision to communicate in Hindi underscored the importance of making complex cyber issues accessible to all segments of society, particularly as the digital landscape becomes increasingly intertwined with daily life.
Mr. K.P. Fabian emphasized the dual nature of atomic energy and AI, highlighting their potential for both good and harm. He clarified that Japan’s surrender in WWII was influenced more by Stalin’s troop movements than the atomic bombings. Shifting focus to AI, Mr. Fabian pointed out the absence of enforceable international law on AI and atomic energy, though some progress has been made, notably through the Council of Europe’s legislation on AI systems.
He also raised intriguing questions about AI accountability, citing Sophia the robot as an example. Finally, he referenced Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, underscoring its relevance to modern ethical debates on technology.
Ambassador Amarendra Khatua concluded the event with a succinct yet powerful summary, urging global leaders to take immediate and decisive action on the critical issues discussed throughout the session. He emphasized the interconnectedness of AI, geopolitics, and cybersecurity, stressing that these are no longer niche concerns but central to global stability and human rights.
In his closing remarks, Ambassador Khatua highlighted how AI and cyber technologies have rapidly shifted the geopolitical landscape, requiring urgent attention from policymakers worldwide. He called for a collaborative approach, where international leaders, academics, and technologists work together to create robust frameworks that address the legal, ethical, and security challenges posed by emerging technologies.
A heartfelt appreciation goes out to the dedicated team whose tireless efforts and unwavering commitment made this event a remarkable success. From the initial planning stages to the flawless execution, each member worked with passion and precision to ensure every detail was meticulously handled. Their collaborative spirit, creativity, and resilience, even in the face of challenges, truly brought this event to life. Special thanks to the organizers, volunteers, and behind-the-scenes coordinators who seamlessly managed logistics, engagement, and operations. It is their hard work, dedication, and shared vision that allowed us to host such a meaningful and impactful event.
Conclusion
CyberPax 2024 was not just an event; it was a transformative experience that fostered meaningful connections and insightful dialogues among legal professionals, scholars, and students alike. At NyayaShastra, we are committed to continuing these conversations, promoting a deeper understanding of the legal challenges posed by the digital age.
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