This side event to the 81st session of the UN General Assembly First Committee marks the formal launch of UNIDIR’s updated Guidelines for the Development of a National Strategy on AI in Security and Defence, reflecting recent technological and governance developments.
National strategies have been recognized as a key pillar for enabling the development and use of AI in security and defence. Recognizing this importance, in 2024, UNIDIR launched a programme of work to develop guidelines for the development, adoption, implementation and review of national strategies on AI in security and defence.
Drawing on national experiences and expertise, this side event organized by UNIDIR’s Centre of Excellence on AI, Peace and Security will bring together representatives of States and the expert community to share and discuss national experiences and best practices.
Speakers will present key observations and reflections and outline the project’s next phase: the development of a dedicated, interactive digital toolbox. Panelists and participants will also be invited to reflect on the value of national strategies and their role in the broader governance of these technologies.
Agenda
13:00-13:15 | Registration and lunch
13:15-13:20 | Welcome remarks and introductions
13:20-13:40 | Launch of the UNIDIR Guidelines for the Development of a National Strategy on AI in Security and Defence
13:40-14:20 | National experiences and best practices for the development of an AI national strategy
14:20-14:40 | Moderated discussion
14:40-14:45 | Wrap-up and closing remarks
Speakers
- Amb Anne Lazar-Sury, Permanent Representative of France, Conference on Disarmament in Geneva
- Prof Michael Horowitz, Director of Perry World House and Richard Perry Professor, University of Pennsylvania
- Dr Robin Geiss, Director, UNIDIR
- Dr Yasmin Afina, Researcher, Centre of Excellence on AI, Peace and Security, UNIDIR
- Jan Hendrik Mannsperger, Graduate Professional, Centre of Excellence on AI, Peace and Security, UNIDIR
When and where
Monday, 19 October 2026 | 13:15 – 14:45 EDT | In person (Conference Room 8, United Nations Headquarters, New York).
Check your local time here.
Participants
The event is open to all.
Registration is mandatory. Please note that participants joining us in person must have a valid visitor pass or long-term badge to enter United Nations Headquarters, as UNIDIR is unable to facilitate entry arrangements.
RSVP
For in-person participation, please register here.
Further information
For any questions, please contact Dr Yasmin Afina at yasmin.afina@un.org.