Risks and Opportunities in PeaceTech: The Need for a People-Centered Approach

Digital technologies are increasingly shaping peacebuilding work, but important questions remain about how these tools are designed, governed and applied in practice. From artificial intelligence and data-driven conflict analysis to digital mediation platforms, satellite observation and immersive training environments, “PeaceTech” has emerged as a potential solution that can connect technology, diplomacy and peacebuilding. However, it also comes with risks. The field remains fragmented, and concerns persist around inclusion, usability, local ownership, data governance and the risk of reproducing inequalities through technologies often shaped predominantly by Global North perspectives and priorities, along with the growing interest of profit-making organisations in the space. In this session, participants will be guided through what PeaceTech is, how it is deployed, and some of the issues it raises. Together, speakers and the audience will explore how peacebuilders themselves can play a more central role in shaping the design, governance and application of PeaceTech. Grounded in human-centric and “Do No Harm” approaches, the discussion will reflect on how technologies can better respond to the practical and ethical realities of working on sensitive issues and often in complex and conflict-affected contexts. Looking at specific recent initiatives, speakers will also discuss how these technologies can be operationalized in practice to deliver tangible added value for peacebuilders and decision-makers. Ultimately, participants will be encouraged to reflect on possible paths forward, leveraging Geneva and Vienna’s roles as multilateral hubs, to ensure that PeaceTech genuinely and responsibly supports more inclusive and impactful peacebuilding. 

More information will be available soon.