AI and Cybersecurity Workshop: The Challenges of New and Updated Threats

Online (via Zoom)
21 March 2024
Past
AI and Cybersecurity Workshop: The Challenges of New and Updated Threats

The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) and Deloitte hosted an online workshop on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cybersecurity: The Challenges of New and Updated Threats.

The workshop was divided into three sessions, each starting with a scenario to showcase the intersection between AI and cybersecurity. Unpacking the discussions around how AI can be used to improve offensive cyber capabilities, AI as a cyber-defense multiplier and AI-based vulnerabilities, the online workshop focused on addressing the following key questions:

  • Current state of play: Are the threat scenarios realistic and exaggerated?
  • The capabilities of Artificial intelligence: What is AI? How does AI affect cybersecurity? How are developments in AI affecting international security?
  • Impact on States: Based on the scenarios, what are some key lessons to consider for States in the process of analyzing the impact of AI on cybersecurity? 
  • Policy Priorities: How should AI, both as a risk and as an opportunity, be featured in cybersecurity policy discussions at both the national and intergovernmental level?

EVENT RECORDING

A recording of this event is available on our YouTube Channel, and below.

AGENDA

Opening Remarks:

  • Giacomo Persi Paoli, Head of Programme, Security and Technology Programme, UNIDIR.
  • David Thogmartin, Director, Deloitte Risk Advisory, Germany.

Speakers:

  • Giacomo Persi Paoli, Head of Programme, Security and Technology Programme, UNIDIR.
    Giacomo’s expertise spans the science and technology domain with emphasis on the implications of emerging technologies for security and defence. His recent work focused on arms control, technology horizon scanning, AI and cyber security. Before joining UNIDIR, Giacomo was Associate Director at RAND Europe where he led the defence and security science, technology and innovation portfolio as well as RAND’s Centre for Futures and Foresight Studies. He served for 14 years as warfare officer in the Italian Navy and has been extensively engaged in small arms and light weapons research in support of UN processes. He holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Rome, Italy and a master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Pisa, Italy. He speaks English, French and Italian. Giacomo’s areas of expertise include defence and security science and technology, and disarmament.
  • Dominique Steinbrecher, Researcher, Security and Technology Programme, UNIDIR.
    Dominique’s areas of expertise include cybersecurity, international law, international humanitarian law and human rights, international security, and disarmament issues. Prior to joining UNIDIR, Dominique worked at the International Committee of the Red Cross in Geneva, the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence, the Non-Proliferation for Global Security Foundation, and the Civil Association for Equality and Justice. She holds an LL.M. from the Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, a postgraduate degree in Security, Disarmament and Non-Proliferation, and a Law Degree from the University of Buenos Aires. Dominique speaks English, Spanish, and has an intermediate knowledge of French.
  • Sandra Ranig, Senior Manager, Cyber Risk Consulting, Deloitte.
    With eight years of extensive experience in Cyber Security across diverse sectors, Sandra has spearheaded numerous strategic IT Security initiatives for multinational clients. Sandra’s primary focus revolves around AI Cyber Security, where she diligently enhances defenses against emerging threats posed by AI and safeguards against potential vulnerabilities.
  • David Thogmartin, Director, Deloitte Risk Advisory, Germany.
    David is Director and leader of the AI practice for Deloitte Risk Advisory in Germany and the aiStudio internationally. David is recognized as a thought leader in Trustworthy AI, particularly in relation to the EU AI Act in Europe. Prior to joining Deloitte, he held numerous leadership roles in financial services: banks, reinsurers, and payment service providers. He holds a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan and has worked in the data science / AI space for over 20 years.

Moderator:

  • Moliehi Makumane, Researcher, Security and Technology Programme, UNIDIR.
    Moliehi’s current focus is on the Open Ended working Group (OEWG) on ICT and her research focus is on perspectives and implementation of the Framework for responsible state behaviour in cyberspace in Africa and the global South. Moliehi was previously a foreign service officer and OEWG and GGE delegate for South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Concluding Remarks

WHEN & WHERE

Thursday, 21 March, 2024 | 10:00 – 12:00 CET | Online (via Zoom)

Please consult this website to find your local time. 

PARTICIPANTS

We welcome delegations, cyber experts as well as members of the multistakeholder community including industry, civil society, and intergovernmental organizations. 

RSVP

Please register here by Wednesday, 20 March, 2024. The link to access the event will be provided by email to registered participants one day prior to the session.

For any questions, please contact the UNIDIR Security and Technology Programme (sectec-unidir@un.org).