Jurnal Studi Multidisiplin Ilmu
Vol 5 No 1 (2027): January

Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems and International Humanitarian Law: Bridging Enforcement Gap Under the Geneva Conventions

Muhammad Auwal Sule (Centre for Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMICO), Abuja, Nigeria)



Article Info

Publish Date
23 Sep 2026

Abstract

Purpose: This article examines whether existing International Humanitarian Law (IHL) is sufficiently enforceable against Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems (LAWS) and identifies mechanisms needed to close the emerging enforcement gap under the Geneva Conventions.Methodology: The study adopts a qualitative doctrinal and documentary design, analyzing the Geneva Conventions, Additional Protocol I, the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, United Nations resolutions, International Committee of the Red Cross positions, and peer reviewed scholarship published mainly between 2021 and 2026.Results: IHL already applies to autonomous weapons in principle, yet distinction, proportionality, and precautionary obligations become difficult to operationalize once targeting functions are delegated to machines, and attribution of responsibility is complicated by opaque software behavior and fragmented decision chains.Conclusions: Bridging the enforcement gap requires a layered regime combining strengthened Article 36 weapons reviews, meaningful human control, traceability requirements, robust post use investigation, and a new binding instrument addressing unpredictable or person targeting systems.Limitations: The study relies on open source doctrinal and policy materials rather than classified operational data, and normative proposals cannot yet be tested against completed state practice.Contributions: The article contributes an integrated accountability model for LAWS governance relevant to treaty negotiators, military legal advisers, and Global South states seeking to align procurement with humanitarian obligations.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

Jasmi

Publisher

Subject

Computer Science & IT Economics, Econometrics & Finance Education Social Sciences Other

Description

Jurnal Studi Multidisiplin Ilmu (JASMI) is a peer-reviewed scientific journal that publishes articles covering a wide range of disciplines, including economics, business, education, humanities, social sciences, and technology. The journal aims to serve as a platform for academics, researchers, and ...