Current and likely future developments of new technologies have potentially far-reaching implications, changing the dynamics of security governance. These advances also have considerable appeal for non-state actors, including terrorist organisations, and organized crime who wish to exploit new opportunities, most particularly given the potential value of autonomous systems as delivery mechanisms. Developments in this field open up a new world of new threats. Many of today’s and tomorrow’s emerging technologies will change the very nature of our society’s status quo, for better or for worse.

Content

In this course, participants will deepen their knowledge on a number of existing emerging technologies and will examine the various risks and opportunities they present for national and international development and security, as well as the surrounding legal and ethical considerations for current and future policy-makers.

The course will primarily focus on biotechnology, big data, artificial intelligence and robotics. In addition, participants will be more broadly introduced to nanotechnology, 3D printing, virtual reality, and blockchain, as is crucial to better understand the transformative effects of these technologies and the challenges they pose.

The following issues will be addressed during the course:

Biotechnology
Artificial intelligence and robotics
Big data
Quantum technology
Legal and ethical challenges
Policy considerations and beneficial applications

The lecturers are scientists, academics, policy makers, eminent engineers, and security experts at a global level from regional and international organizations dealing with relevant topics.

The training module will promote transfer of good practices and enhance networking with leading academic institutions, national, regional and international organizations, and research centres.

Course information

The course will be held from 4 to 8 December 2017 at the United Nations Campus in Turin, Italy. The training is designed for university graduates in Law, Political Science, International Relations, Economics, Social Science, Public Policy and other relevant disciplines. It is also suited to professionals working in governmental institutions, local authorities, international and non-governmental organizations.

Candidates must have a very good working knowledge of English.

Upon full completion of the course the UNICRI will grant a Certificate of Participation.