Volker Türk warns of AI risks and civilian casualties
On September 7, 2026, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk addressed the UN Human Rights Council, warning that advanced artificial intelligence poses an existential risk to humanity. Speaking in Geneva, Türk also detailed deep concerns over soaring civilian casualties in more than 60 interstate wars and failing ceasefires globally.
Volker Türk Warns of AI Safety Gaps and Existential Risks
The High Commissioner called for an all-out effort to put cast iron guarantees in place around the safety and security of artificial intelligence before it is too late. This requires direct engagement with technology firms, host nations, and stakeholders across the entire supply chain to establish enforceable oversight.
Addressing the root causes of systemic instability, climate displacement, and economic inequality requires coordinated civic intervention.
Türk closed his address by emphasizing that human rights function as essential carriers of hope. They serve as a compass during turbulent historical moments and offer concrete solutions to complex global challenges.
Escalating Interstate Wars and Civilian Casualties
Beyond technological threats, the High Commissioner outlined an alarming expansion in global warfare. More than 60 active interstate wars currently involve at least one state, drawing acute concern over violations of international law.
Türk expressed horror at the use of fully autonomous drones, the targeting of civilian infrastructure, and soaring casualty numbers across multiple active zones. The address specifically highlighted ongoing warfare involving Ukraine, Sudan, Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, and Iran.
The Fragility of Zones Between War and Peace
The address also drew attention to vulnerable populations caught in geographical limbo—places where formal peace has dissolved, yet all-out war has not officially been declared. Countries such as South Sudan, Yemen, and Ethiopia remain trapped in instability as localized negotiations break down and agreed-upon ceasefires are disregarded.
According to the High Commissioner, the only way out of this ongoing crisis is a return to peace negotiations strictly respecting the UN Charter. Upholding international human rights and humanitarian law remains the singular framework capable of stabilizing fracturing governance structures.