Navigating risks and harnessing potential: OSCE and Asian Partners discuss the impact of emerging technologies in the security sector

Over 140 participants from OSCE participating States, Asian Partners for Co-operation, international organizations, civil society and academia gathered in Vienna and online for the Third Inter-Regional Conference on the Impact of Emerging Technologies. The event was organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, in co-operation with the OSCE Secretariat and the Maltese Chair of the Asian Partners for Co-operation Group.

The conference provided a platform for cross-regional dialogue on the security implications of rapid and exponential technological change, with a focus on the risks and opportunities posed by artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and digital innovation.

Participants discussed ways to strengthen collaboration between the OSCE and Asian Partners emphasizing the use of strategic foresight to ensure that technological advancements contribute to peace and security.

“The growing linkage between the security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific region underscores the need for inter-regional co-operation rooted in trust. Only through sustained dialogue and joint understanding can we respond effectively to threats,” said Cho Koo-Rae, Vice Minister for Strategy and Intelligence at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, in his opening remarks.

“As emerging technologies reshape our world, our commitment to dialogue, partnership and comprehensive security remains unwavering,” emphasized OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioğlu. “The long-standing OSCE Asian Partnership for Co-operation reflects our shared commitment to tackling global and interconnected security challenges inherent in the dual-use nature of technologies,” he added.

Throughout the sessions, participants highlighted the importance of transparency, responsible innovation, and coordinated, inclusive policy-making. The discussions underscored that joint action is essential for anticipating and managing technology-driven risks, while strengthening the resilience of critical national infrastructure and democratic institutions.

“As Partners and participating States, it is our responsibility to harness these technologies judiciously, ensuring that we remain vigilant and adaptive in the face of evolving threats. By embracing innovation while upholding ethical standards, we can create a safer and more secure world,” said Lieut. Colonel Christian A. Zammit Cordina, representative of the OSCE Chair of the Asian Partners for Co-operation Group.

The conference built on the outcomes of previous inter-regional conferences held in 2020 and 2023, reaffirming the steadfast commitment of the OSCE and the Asian Partners for Co-operation, to address emerging security challenges in a rapidly evolving technological landscape and encourage the use of the OSCE’s extensive toolkit and experience in the three dimensions of OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security.