This brief talk will provide an overview of the research project I would like to start at the CDH. 

Because of the relevance it holds for virtually all emerging technologies, AI is seen as a promising case-study of how to address structural challenges for international law on technology. A number of international actors have drafted ethical guidelines for AI governance, placing the focus on values such as autonomy, accountability, or digital sustainability. This research project builds on this momentum. The first general objective is to evaluate the contours of an international law on AI. The second general objective is to give this emerging international law a normative backbone by drawing upon a specific doctrinal approach to international law, thereby drawing on a republican approach structured around a notion of freedom defined as meaning an absence of domination. The third general objective is to identify the lessons learnt from this republican international law on AI for international law on emerging technologies. The results will contribute to theoretical issues in international law and help identify best practices for policymaking in the context of technologies. They will also improve international law’s capacity to address technological developments that impact individuals and States alike.