Governance and Regulation of Autonomous Weapons and Cybersecurity (2016–2024): The Influence of States, International Organizations, and Civil Society on International Humanitarian Law

Between 2016 and 2024, the rapid development of emerging military technologies, such aslethal autonomous weapons, artificial intelligence applied to warfare, and cyber warfare, has posedsignificant challenges to International Humanitarian Law (IHL). This article critically analyzes the influenceof States, international organizations, and civil society in shaping the legal and ethical frameworksaddressing these issues. Using a qualitative, hermeneutic approach, it examines global actors’ discourses,principles, and regulatory proposals. The study identifies three key findings: (i) a critical normative gapconcerning autonomous systems and cyberconflicts; (ii) the need to reframe the notion of meaningfulhuman control as a substantive legal safeguard; and (iii) the reluctance of technologically advanced Statesto accept binding frameworks. The discussion highlights the role of civil society as a normative co-designerand proposes a more inclusive, anticipatory, and adaptive global governance. Finally, the article providesrecommendations to strengthen multilateral spaces, define clear principles, and promote proactive, ethical,and effective regulation of emerging military technologies.