In a recent study conducted by UN Women and the United Nations University Institute in Macau (UNU Macau) on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in South-East Asia, alarming results were found. The report highlighted the systemic issues that put women’s security at risk when AI is adopted, and the gender biases present in widely used AI systems that hinder the positive impact of AI on peace and security in the region. It was discovered that women human rights defenders (WHRDs) and women’s Civil Society Organisations (WCSOs) are particularly vulnerable to cyber threats, with limited resources to prepare for or recover from cyber-attacks.
Gender Biases in AI Systems
The study identified four types of gender biases in AI – discrimination, stereotyping, exclusion, and insecurity. These biases need to be addressed to fully harness the potential benefits of AI in the region. While AI has the potential to add USD 1 trillion to the gross domestic product of South-East Asian countries by 2030, it is crucial to understand the impact of these technologies on the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda. However, the prevalent gender biases in AI systems prevent women from fully benefiting from technological advancements.
The research highlighted the dual nature of AI in peace and conflict situations. While AI can be used for peace purposes, such as improving inclusivity and the effectiveness of conflict prevention, it also poses risks, especially when employed for military purposes. The report emphasized the need to mitigate the risks associated with AI systems, especially on social media platforms, and to develop AI tools explicitly designed to support gender-responsive peace efforts in line with WPS commitments.
In addition to gender biases in AI systems, the study also explored cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities faced by WHRDs and WCSOs in South-East Asia. It was found that cyber threats are gendered in nature, with women’s rights advocates being specifically targeted due to the nature of their work. The report highlighted the disproportionate risks faced by WCSOs and WHRDs, such as online harassment, trolling, and doxxing, which can disrupt their work and damage their reputation.
Recommendations for Enhancing Cyber Resilience
Based on the research findings, the report made several recommendations to promote cyber-resilience among WHRDs and WCSOs in South-East Asia. These recommendations included fostering inclusive and collaborative approaches in cybersecurity policy development, enhancing the knowledge of civil society, government, and private-sector actors on cyber risks, and providing specific support to at-risk individuals and organizations operating in politically volatile and conflict-affected contexts.
The study conducted by UN Women and UNU Macau shed light on the challenges and opportunities of AI in promoting women’s security, peace, and security in South-East Asia. By addressing the gender biases in AI systems and enhancing cyber-resilience among WHRDs and WCSOs, the region can harness the full potential of AI to advance the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. The launch of the research findings at the UN Women youth conference in Bangkok marks the beginning of a concerted effort to promote gender-inclusive digital governance and ethical norms surrounding AI.
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