7amleh’s Brussels Conference: A Call for a Global Civil Society Alliance to Address AI Harms in Times of War

On 12 November, 7amleh - The Arab Centre for the Advancement of Social Media held its third conference in Brussels, “AI Harms in Times of War: Weaponization, Information Disorder, and EU Tech Policy,” bringing together more than 80 participants from different countries and professional backgrounds.

The conference convened technology experts, academics, journalists, civil society organisations, and representatives of the European Commission and European Parliament to examine the growing role of artificial intelligence in warfare, disinformation campaigns, Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI), surveillance, and other forms of information disorder, as well as the gaps in existing EU regulatory and accountability frameworks.

Across a series of panels and workshops, participants explored how AI-enabled technologies are being used in conflict settings and the consequences these systems can have for affected communities. Discussions also focused on practical approaches to identifying and debunking AI-generated narratives, investigating the use of AI in surveillance and weapon systems, and strengthening accountability for technology companies and public authorities.

A key objective of the conference was to strengthen connections between actors working on related issues across different sectors. Policymakers engaged directly with researchers and human rights defenders, while journalists and technology experts exchanged methodologies, evidence, and investigative approaches. These cross-sector exchanges are essential to addressing AI-related harms in a more coordinated and effective way.

The third edition of the conference also aimed to create a foundation for continued collaboration beyond the event itself. 7amleh hopes that the relationships built in Brussels will lead to further joint research, advocacy, litigation, and other forms of cooperation aimed at advancing accountability for AI-related harms.

7amleh thanks all participants, speakers, moderators, and contributors who made the conference possible. This collective work is essential to protecting the rights of Palestinians and other communities affected by the growing use of AI and emerging technologies in conflict and repression.