UN Global Conference on AI, Security and Ethics 2026

The Global Conference on AI, Security and Ethics 2026, organized by United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research, is set to take place on 18–19 June 2026, bringing together global leaders to address the growing impact of artificial intelligence on international security.

This flagship event is part of UNIDIR’s broader efforts to shape responsible AI governance in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.

About the Conference

The conference is organized under UNIDIR’s Security and Technology Programme and serves as a major platform for discussing how AI is transforming global security systems.

It brings together a diverse group of stakeholders, including:

• Diplomats and policymakers
• Military and security experts
• Technology companies and industry leaders
• Academics and researchers
• Civil society organizations

The event promotes cross-sector collaboration and evidence-based policy discussions on AI governance.

Why This Conference Matters

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping national and global security landscapes. Governments and institutions worldwide are increasingly focused on ensuring that AI systems are:

• Safe and secure
• Ethically developed and deployed
• Aligned with international law and norms

The conference addresses these urgent challenges by fostering dialogue that transcends geopolitical competition and promotes global cooperation.

Key Themes and Discussions

The 2026 conference will focus on critical issues such as:

• AI in military and defense applications
• Cybersecurity and emerging threats
• Ethical frameworks and governance of AI
• Risk management and accountability
• International law and global cooperation

Previous editions have also explored topics like AI-driven destabilization, data governance, and trust-building mechanisms in security systems.

Global Platform for AI Governance

The conference is part of the Roundtable for AI, Security and Ethics (RAISE) initiative, which promotes inclusive global dialogue on AI in security and defense.

Through this initiative, UNIDIR aims to:

• Build shared global norms
• Encourage transparency and cooperation
• Strengthen international trust in AI systems

It represents a growing global effort to ensure AI contributes to peace, stability, and resilience rather than conflict.

Event Impact

The inaugural 2025 conference reached over half a million people globally, highlighting the increasing importance of AI governance discussions on the world stage. As AI continues to evolve, events like this are becoming central to shaping the future of international security policy and technology governance.

Final Insight

The UNIDIR Global Conference on AI, Security and Ethics 2026 stands as a critical platform for understanding and shaping the future of artificial intelligence in global security.

For policymakers, researchers, and professionals in technology and international relations, this conference offers a unique opportunity to engage in high-level discussions that will define the next phase of AI governance worldwide.