Technological Frontiers and Regional Stability: AI and Cybersecurity in the Indo-Pacific

The transformative potential of emerging and disruptive technologies like cyberspace and artificial intelligence underpins claims of a revolution in interstate affairs. Over the last decade, these technologies have been adopted as enablers for traditional state mechanisms at both global and regional levels. While generating significant benefits for individuals and societies, their fragility and novelty also create opportunities for malicious actors to exert undue pressure. Cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure continue to alarm private citizens and policymakers, while advancements in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems raise concerns about conflicts unfolding at machine speed, effectively sidelining human decision-makers. Despite vivid portrayals in popular media and emotive rhetoric from political and military leaders, the actual threat these technologies pose to the stability of states and modern societies remains uncertain. This question is particularly pressing for Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific as more states adopt these technologies to augment their capabilities amid prospects of increasing regional instability. Consequently, this panel brings together experts in artificial intelligence and cyberspace to discuss the impact and limitations of these technologies on regional stability and interstate affairs, as well as strategies to mitigate associated risks.