Society, Law and Policy Review

Warfare and Machines: An In-depth Study of Autonomous Weapons in the Context of International Humanitarian Law

Ahmad Maqbool, Ali Anwar — Fri, 12 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This research article looks at the ramifications of autonomous weapon systems within the context of international humanitarian law. The author discusses the most recent breakthroughs in autonomous weapons, their features, and the benefits to the parties that use them. The study investigates how autonomous weapons comply with treaty law, focusing on the Geneva Conventions, the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, and Article 36 of Additional Protocol I. The study also examines how customary international law concepts be applied to autonomous weapons. To provide policymakers and other relevant authorities the clarity on the subject, the author has also offered some recommendations in the concluding section. In addition to analyzing the legal framework surrounding autonomous weapon systems, this research article delves into the ethical considerations associated with their deployment. The author explores the potential consequences of autonomous weapons on human rights, accountability, and the moral implications of delegating lethal decision-making to machines. By scrutinizing the intersection of international humanitarian law and ethical considerations, the article aims to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted challenges posed by autonomous weapon systems. The concluding section not only offers recommendations for legal compliance but also emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach that integrates ethical considerations into the regulatory landscape governing these advanced technologies. This holistic perspective aims to guide policymakers and relevant authorities in formulating balanced and responsible policies concerning the development and use of autonomous weapon systems.

Invisible Warfare: The Psychological Impact of Biological Weapons in the Context of International Humanitarian Law

Ishwah Abbas Khawaja — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This study investigates the historical and modern use of biological weapons as effective psychological warfare tools, delving into the motivations for their use as well as the catastrophic psychological effects they cause. The paper also examines examples such as Japan's use of biological weapons during World War II and the 2001 Anthrax attacks in the United States to highlight the profound psychological consequences of using biological agents in warfare. Despite their classification as weapons of mass destruction, compliance with International Humanitarian Law remains a major concern. Further, the author emphasizes humans' inherent psychological vulnerability to biological weapons threats, revealing how the fear of invisible, contagious, and potentially lethal agents can cause widespread anxiety, paranoia, and social disruption. The study uses the recent COVID-19 pandemic as a case study to highlight the effect that such threats have on an adversary's resolve and morale. It also looks into the past use of fear-mongering to win over the public to unwarranted military actions, like the "shock and awe" attack on Iraq. In summary, the paper advocates for global collaboration and awareness to prevent biological weapons from being used in psychological warfare. It calls attention to the grave dangers such acts pose to global peace and security, as well as their profound and potentially irreversible psychological effects.

Drones, Bots, and the Law: Charting the Terrain of Autonomous Weapon Systems in International Conflict

Abdullah Yucel, Junaid Jan, Muhammad Zain Aslam, Muhammad Adnan Aziz — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This paper examines the challenges and future possibilities of Autonomous Weapon Systems (AWS) in the context of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). It investigates AWS definitions, focusing on substantial human oversight and differentiating AWS from artificial intelligence. The significance of understanding IHL is underscored by the author, given the UN's directive for AWS adherence to legal constraints on the use of force. The paper also discussed the three pillars of IHL – discrimination, proportionality, and precaution – are examined, highlighting challenges such as the complexities of discrimination in a post-9/11 era and the limitations of automated systems in applying common sense. The paper concludes by laying the groundwork for a comprehensive understanding of the ethical and legal dimensions of AWS in relation to civilian protection.

Shaping Public Perception: The Evolution of Government Public Relations in the Digital Age

Mahar Waqar Fazal, Muhammad Jahanzaib Aslam — Fri, 12 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This research examines the historical development of public relations and its role in promoting effective governance, democracy, and communication in diverse states. It highlights the Islamic perspective on mass communication and its influence on contemporary public relations practices. The study also explores the evolution of public relations in the digital age, with a focus on social media and its impact on democracy. Additionally, it examines the historical foundations of public relations in Pakistan, which have been shaped by the country's ethnic and religious diversity. Beyond these key areas, the research further explores the ethical considerations of public relations practices in the digital age, particularly regarding data privacy, fake news, and misinformation. It also analyzes the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving media landscape for public relations professionals and organizations. By providing a comprehensive overview of the field, the research aims to contribute valuable insights for academics, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to understand and navigate the complexities of public relations in the contemporary world. The study provides a comparative analysis of public relations history in the United States, Russia, China, and India, offering international insights into the commonalities and differences that impact communication strategies. Overall, the research provides important insights for academics and practitioners alike, highlighting the crucial role that public relations plays in promoting efficient governance, democracy, and societal advancement.

Crafting Public Narratives: A Holistic Overview of Directorate General Public Relations Punjab

Muhammad Amal Atta, Muhammad Maaz Shakeel — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This article delves into the dynamic landscape of public relations (PR) and underscores its pivotal role in contemporary socio-economic contexts, with a specific emphasis on the Directorate General Public Relations (DGPR) of Punjab. PR emerges as a strategic discipline crucial for shaping positive relationships, managing credibility, and influencing public opinion in both the public and private sectors. Within the government sector, the article highlights PR's integral role in promoting accountability, transparency, and public trust. The author also discussed its function as a facilitator for effective communication between government organizations and the public, playing a vital role in disseminating policies, managing crises, and bridging the gap between the ruling class and the general public. A focal point of the study is the Directorate General Public Relations of Punjab, providing a comprehensive overview of its historical evolution, operational mechanisms, and the challenges it encounters. The author also discussed the rich historical context and contemporary applications, accentuating the enduring significance of PR, particularly as embodied by the DGPR, in shaping public perceptions and maintaining effective communication channels in both government and private sectors.