Disinformation powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and facilitated by agent-based large language model (LLM) systems is becoming more scalable, cheaper, and harder to detect. Disinformation campaigns exploit the social media environment, where disinformation has several advantages over fact-based information. This might erode trust in institutions and democratic processes, particularly in relation to the ban on chemical weapons. The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) is a continuous target of disinformation campaigns designed to undermine responsibility, attribution, as well as the organization’s legitimacy and governance structures. This chapter argues that technical detection alone is insufficient to address the new challenges posed by AI. Additional countermeasures include strengthening the OPCW’s monitoring and analysis capabilities, adopting a proactive and transparent communication strategy, enhancing multilateral cooperation, and engaging platforms and AI providers to counter AI-based “swarm” campaigns.
Bibliographische Angaben
Gasse, P. (2026). Scaling Disinformation with AI: A Threat to the Chemical Weapons Prohibition? In: Göttsche, M., Jakob, U., & Schörnig, N. (Eds.). Verification in an Era of Rapid Technological Change. CNTR Monitor – Technology and Arms Control 2026. PRIF – Peace Research Institute Frankfurt.
Autor
Dr. Philip Gasse
