THE LEGAL PERSONALITY OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND ITS IMPACT ON INTERNATIONAL LAW

Abstract

This article analyzes the far-reaching implications of granting legal personality to artificial intelligence (AI) technologies within the context of international law. The rapid development of AI raises the question of whether these technologies, beyond being mere tools, could be recognized as independent actors in the international legal order. In this context, the potential effects of recognizing AI as legal persons on various domains such as inter-state relations, the structure of international organizations, the law of war, cybersecurity, and ethical responsibilities are thoroughly examined.

The initial sections of the article explore the impact of granting legal personality to AI on inter-state relations. The recognition of AI as an actor in international relations could significantly influence state sovereignty and the decision-making processes of international organizations. It is emphasized that states' decisions on whether to grant legal personality to AI systems should involve a process of international cooperation and consensus. Moreover, it is suggested that international organizations, particularly entities like the United Nations and the European Union, should take a decisive stance on the role AI will play within the framework of international law.

The article also addresses the need to reassess the principles of liability law. The autonomous operation of AI systems raises critical questions about how responsibility for actions taken by these systems should be allocated. Traditional liability regimes may be inadequate for determining who should be held accountable for damages caused by AI, underscoring the necessity for updates to international law in this regard.

Other critical areas discussed in the article include the laws of war and cybersecurity. The use of AI in wartime scenarios may necessitate new regulations to ensure compatibility with the fundamental principles of the law of war. Similarly, the use of AI systems in cyber-attacks highlights the importance of regulating these systems' security protocols within the framework of international law.

Finally, the article offers several proposals for adapting international law to AI technologies. These proposals include strengthening global cooperation, updating international legal norms, and establishing a universal ethical framework. Additionally, the article advocates for granting AI systems specific legal statuses that clearly define their rights and responsibilities.

This article provides a comprehensive examination of the impact of AI technologies on international law and offers an in-depth analysis of the legal reforms needed to address these emerging challenges. Central to the discussion are the questions of how AI will be positioned within international law and how this process will be shaped.