The Impact of Revolution 4.0 on International Law and Arms Regulation (2016-2024).

Abstract

This research examines the impact of Revolution 4.0 on International Law and arms regulation, particularly in the period 2016-2024, through a critical and socio-legal approach, it analyzes the challenges imposed on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) by new technologies applied to armed conflicts, such as autonomous weapons systems (AWS), artificial intelligence (AI) and cyberwarfare. These innovations have reshaped the modern battlefield, posing serious challenges to the application of fundamental principles such as distinction, proportionality and precaution, the study starts from the recognition of a normative gap that hinders the attribution of state responsibility and meaningful human control, especially in scenarios where war decisions are automated, likewise, the role of states, international organizations and civil society in the construction of effective regulatory frameworks is examined; The methodology used combines normative-dogmatic, comparative-legal and philosophical-legal methods, supported by analysis of recent cases and specialized literature; the project aims not only to identify the normative transformations driven by the technological revolution, but also to propose guidelines to ensure respect for IHL in contexts of digitalized warfare, this research contributes to the reflection on the need to adapt international law to the dizzying changes of the XXI century, reaffirming the imperative of protecting civilian populations in the use of emerging war technologies.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.52783/rcp.1150