Philippines Calls for AI Military Regulation by UNSC

Published Date : 29/09/2025 

Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro calls on the United Nations Security Council to regulate the military use of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need for strong oversight and international laws to prevent its misuse. 

MANILA, Philippines — With the immense capability of artificial intelligence to be exploited for dangerous ends, the Philippines has called on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to take the lead in regulating military uses of AI.

During a high-level debate in New York City last week, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said the UNSC has the distinct capability to adopt measures that could prevent the exploitation of AI. By integrating AI in its operations with all due guardrails, Lazaro said the council could utilize its immense potential in threat assessment, sanctions monitoring, and counterterrorism.

“We must institute guiding principles on AI’s military use, invoking applicable international humanitarian law and international human rights law,” she said. If AI is to be integrated into implementing peacekeeping mandates, she stated that there should be strong oversight to ensure that this tool only ‘serves to protect and not to harm.’

“The Philippines looks to the UN Security Council to assert its leadership in harnessing AI as a force for good and a powerful driver of peace and security,” she added. Lazaro said the promise of AI is tempered by its potential for misuse, as generative AI and large language models can be used to spread false news and harmful propaganda.

“It can potentially destabilize social order, erode trust in institutions, sow discord, divide populations, undermine democracy, free speech, and the electoral process,” she said. Additionally, Lazaro called for transparency and confidence-building among nations with respect to AI use.

The Philippines believes that the UNSC, with its global influence and authority, is best positioned to lead the way in ensuring that AI is used responsibly and ethically in military contexts. The country’s call for regulation reflects a growing international concern about the rapid advancement of AI technology and its potential implications for global security and stability.

The Foreign Affairs Secretary’s speech underscores the need for a balanced approach that leverages AI’s benefits while mitigating its risks. By advocating for international cooperation and regulation, the Philippines aims to foster a safer and more secure world for all nations. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the main concern the Philippines has regarding AI in military use?

A: The main concern is the potential misuse of AI, which can spread false news, harmful propaganda, and undermine social order, trust in institutions, and democratic processes.

Q: What role does the Philippines believe the UN Security Council should play in AI regulation?

A: The Philippines believes the UN Security Council should lead in regulating the military use of AI by instituting guiding principles and ensuring strong oversight to prevent misuse.

Q: What are the potential benefits of integrating AI in UN operations?

A: The potential benefits include enhanced threat assessment, more effective sanctions monitoring, and improved counterterrorism efforts.

Q: Why is transparency important in the context of AI use among nations?

A: Transparency is crucial to build trust and confidence among nations, ensuring that AI is used responsibly and ethically, and to prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.

Q: What international laws should be considered when regulating AI in military contexts?

A: International humanitarian law and international human rights law should be considered to ensure that AI is used in a manner that respects human rights and protects civilians. 

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