Using AI to Rebuild War-Torn Nations
AI has been widely deployed in wartime scenarios. However, most existing research has centered on enhancing combat effectiveness, with far less attention given to how AI can be leveraged to prevent conflict or support post-war recovery [Laurie Blank & Daphné Richemond-Barak, Daniele Quercia, Ingvild Bode]
To address this gap, we propose a structured methodology that aims to systematically explore the post-conflict applications of AI. This approach involves:
- Identifying and Categorizing Post-Conflict Use Cases
Examples include humanitarian assistance, data verification, peacebuilding, accountability, infrastructure recovery, and civil governance (examples - which don't represent an exhaustive list - are detailed below).
- Assessing the Potential Risks and Benefits
Each application is analyzed using a framework similar to ExploreGen by Herdel et al. and RiskRAG by Rao et al., identifying risks and benefits.
- Consulting Domain Experts for Evaluation
We incorporate expert input—such as from Laurie Blank, Daphné Richemond-Barak, and Ingvild Bode—to ensure context-specific, grounded analysis of both risks and benefits.
Examples of Post-Conflict Applications of AI:
1. Humanitarian Assistance & Protection
- Analyze displacement patterns to identify vulnerable populations
- Optimize aid logistics using AI-driven planning
- Use biometric systems for refugee registration and medical aid
- Predict refugee movements to improve response efforts
2. Data Collection, Sharing & Verification
- Fuse data from diverse sources using AI
- Enable secure, auditable information sharing (e.g., via blockchain)
- Verify ceasefire agreements and track demobilization through ML
3. Conflict De-escalation & Peacebuilding
- Monitor ceasefires with drones and AI-analyzed intelligence
- Map movements of troops and civilians to prevent escalation
- Support DDR (Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration) via AI-tracked reintegration
4. Accountability & Justice
- Use satellite imagery and AI to document war crimes
- Process legal evidence efficiently with AI tools
- Secure digital records for use in post-conflict tribunals
5. Infrastructure & Peace Recovery
- Assess damage using computer vision and remote sensing
- Plan reconstruction with AI-optimized resource allocation
- Rebuild digital communication networks
6. Rebuilding Trust & Civil Governance
- Deploy AI platforms for participatory governance and civic engagement
References
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Daniele Quercia "AI Can Save Lives"
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Herdel et al. "ExploreGen: Large Language Models for Envisioning the Uses and Risks of AI Technologies"
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Rao et al. "RiskRAG: A Data-Driven Solution for Improved AI Model Risk Reporting"
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Laurie Blank & Daphné Richemond-Barak. "When Technology Meets Humanity: Shifting Policy Towards Protection in Conflict"
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Ingvild Bode. "Human-Machine Interaction and Human Agency in the Military Domain"