In an effort to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can support human-led peacebuilding initiatives, the G20 Interfaith Forum (IF20) is hosting a webinar titled “AI and Peacebuilding.” This event, part of IF20’s broader “AI and Human Flourishing” series, brings together experts from diverse fields—political negotiation, cultural evolution, and international dialogue—to discuss how AI can complement rather than replace the work of peacemakers. The session will take place on July 16, 2026, and is open to all interested parties.

A New Frontier in Peacebuilding

The webinar marks a significant step in understanding the potential of AI within conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts. While AI cannot resolve conflicts or build lasting peace by itself, it offers tools that can enhance human-led initiatives. These include early warning systems for potential conflicts, platforms for fostering dialogue between opposing groups, and data-driven approaches to support collaborative problem-solving.

The idea is not new—AI has already been used in various forms of conflict analysis and mediation. For example, machine learning algorithms have been employed to analyze social media trends and detect signs of rising tensions before they escalate into violence. However, the webinar aims to expand on these applications by examining how AI can be integrated more deeply into peacebuilding processes.

Key Voices in the Discussion

The panel features three prominent figures with unique perspectives on the intersection of technology and peacebuilding. John, Lord Alderdice, a psychoanalytic psychiatrist and former key negotiator of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, brings firsthand experience to the discussion. He emphasizes that peacemaking must evolve alongside both conflict and technological change.

“AI is not just another tool in the peacebuilder’s toolkit—it is reshaping how we understand and approach conflict,” Alderdice said. “As AI influences individual psychology and societal structures, it becomes essential for peacemakers to adapt their strategies accordingly.”

Professor Pieter Francois, Director of Oxford University’s Computational Humanities Lab and Co-Chair of IF20’s subgroup on Freedom of Religion or Belief, adds that the impact of AI on peacebuilding is still unfolding. “AI is changing rapidly the modalities of peace negotiation,” he noted. “It presents both opportunities and risks, and we must remain vigilant in how it is applied.”

Julian Weinberg, founder of Dialogue Action, a global organization dedicated to fostering reconciliation through dialogue, frames AI as a supportive force rather than a replacement for human involvement. “AI can contribute to human-led efforts toward peace,” he said. “But it cannot replace the empathy, judgment, and moral reasoning that are central to peacemaking.”

The Balance Between Technology and Humanity

A recurring theme in the webinar is the need to maintain a balance between technological advancement and human agency. While AI has the potential to streamline processes and provide valuable insights, its role must be carefully managed to avoid over-reliance or misapplication.

One of the key concerns raised by the speakers is the risk of depersonalization in peacebuilding efforts. If AI systems are used to make decisions without sufficient human oversight, they may fail to account for the nuanced social and emotional factors that underpin conflict resolution. For instance, an algorithm might identify patterns of hostility but lack the ability to understand the underlying motivations or cultural contexts driving those behaviors.

“We must ensure that AI is a tool for enhancing human capabilities, not replacing them,” Weinberg emphasized. “Peacebuilding requires more than data—it requires trust, empathy, and shared understanding.”

The Path Forward: Ethical Considerations and Practical Applications

As the webinar explores these themes, it also highlights the importance of ethical considerations in the development and deployment of AI for peacebuilding. Issues such as bias in algorithmic decision-making, data privacy, and transparency are critical to ensuring that AI is used responsibly.

One practical application being discussed is the use of AI in conflict early warning systems. These systems can analyze vast amounts of data from social media, news reports, and satellite imagery to detect signs of potential violence. However, such tools must be designed with care to avoid false positives or the misuse of sensitive information.

Another area of focus is the role of AI in facilitating dialogue between conflicting parties. Natural language processing (NLP) technologies can help identify common ground, translate languages, and even simulate conversations between opposing groups. These capabilities could significantly enhance the effectiveness of peace negotiations by reducing misunderstandings and fostering mutual respect.

Why This Matters for Global Peace

The webinar underscores a growing recognition that AI is not just a technological innovation—it is a transformative force with profound implications for global peace and security. As conflicts become more complex and interconnected, traditional methods of conflict resolution may no longer be sufficient. AI offers new possibilities for addressing these challenges, but only if it is used thoughtfully and in conjunction with human expertise.

The participation of experts from diverse backgrounds—ranging from political negotiation to cultural evolution—highlights the interdisciplinary nature of this issue. It also reflects a broader trend in global governance: the increasing reliance on technology to address complex societal problems while maintaining ethical standards and human values.

Conclusion

The G20 Interfaith Forum’s webinar on “AI and Peacebuilding” represents an important step toward understanding how artificial intelligence can support, rather than supplant, human-led efforts toward peace. By bringing together scholars, negotiators, and technologists, the event highlights both the potential and the challenges of integrating AI into peacebuilding processes.

As AI continues to evolve, its role in conflict resolution will likely expand. However, its success will depend on careful ethical consideration, robust oversight, and a commitment to preserving human agency in peacemaking. Readers should watch for future developments in this space, including new applications of AI in conflict prevention and the emergence of global standards for responsible AI use in peacebuilding.

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