We live in an era of extraordinarily rapid technological change which impacts virtually all aspects of social life, including international security. On the one hand, some technological advances, such as drones, AI-assisted systems, significantly enhanced sensors, and new materials, are finding their way into military arsenals, significantly altering the conduct of warfare. Technological developments in areas like space, biology, biotechnology and chemistry may bring immense benefits, but some could also be misused for nefarious purposes, requiring thorough dual-use risk assessments. On the other hand, science and technology can also be harnessed to strengthen international peace and security, particularly through their use in arms control verification. Thus, there is an urgent need to critically examine how the rapid scientific and technological advances could reshape the verification landscape of the future.
Bibliographic record
Göttsche, M., Jakob, U., & Schörnig, N. (2026). Introduction: Verification in an Era of Rapid Technological Change. 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.
Authors
Dr. Una Jakob, Dr. Niklas Schörnig & Prof. Dr. Malte Göttsche
