UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on Mercenaries. Delivered at the 63rd Human Rights Council in Geneva.
Thank you, Vice President,
We thank the Working Group for its timely report.
Technology-enabled mercenarism poses a serious and evolving threat to human rights, international security and the rule of law.
Unregulated access to artificial intelligence, cyber tools, commercial spyware, autonomous systems and digital platforms can extend the reach, scale and deniability of malign actors. These capabilities heighten risks for civilians and affected communities, particularly in fragile, conflict-affected contexts.
The UK is deeply concerned by Russia’s use of AI to support influence operations by the Africa Corps and the Wagner Group across Africa. Russian state-directed actors such as the media organisation Rybar, influence organisation ‘Africa Politology’ and news aggregation network ‘Portal Kombat’ have exploited AI to generate disinformation and manipulate online discourse which undermine democratic institutions and regional stability. Russia should be held accountable for these malign activities and their impact on vulnerable communities.
The UK supports stronger human rights safeguards in procurement and export controls and the need for rigorous due diligence by companies. Greater international cooperation is also essential to preserve evidence, investigate violations and prevent safe havens.
Members of the Working Group,
What practical steps should States take to strengthen international coordination and ensure accountability for technology-enabled mercenarism?
Thank you.