Karolina and Kaja’s Research Trip: Exploring the Intersection of Law and Technology

Last week, Karolina Kremens and Kaja Kowalczewska embarked on a transformative research trip to the Netherlands, where they had the incredible opportunity to delve into the heart of international justice and cutting-edge technology.

International Criminal Court (ICC) Visit:

Our journey began with a visit to the premises of the International Criminal Court in The Hague, a hub of global justice. Witnessing the profound work done here reminded us of the importance of accountability on the global stage but also about moder threats like cyberattacks.

University of Maastricht Conference:

Next, we attended the “Use of Artificial Intelligence in International Criminal Courts” conference at the Maastricht University. This event, organized by Africa Legal Aid, was a vibrant meeting of legal minds focused on the transformative role of AI and other emerging technologies in international justice.

Exploring Technology’s Role:

Speakers discussed the broad spectrum of new technologies, not limited to AI, and their applicability to prosecution, defense, and the perspectives of witnesses and victims. It’s an exciting but challenging journey to integrate these technologies, and it was emphasized that a thoughtful approach is essential to mitigate unintended negative consequences.

A Collective Effort:

One key takeaway was the importance of collaboration among all entities within the ICC. To harness the potential of AI and related technologies effectively, it requires a collective effort. It’s not just about innovation; it’s about responsible innovation that respects the principles of justice.

Beware of Bias:

The discussions underscored a crucial concern – the potential for AI to amplify existing gender bias and discrimination. This is a sobering reminder that, as we venture into the world of technology-assisted justice, we must be vigilant against perpetuating inequities.