Crimes of Violence and Exploitation: How AI Can Offer New Tools for the Law
Despite economic progress and advances in healthcare and technology, humans still commit unspeakable acts of violence against each other, much of it for profit. Human trafficking and migrant smuggling exploit the misfortune of others, and the illegal exploitation of wildlife and the environment causes untold suffering and devastation to the planet. These are transnational organized crimes that have global implications. Beyond the terrible human cost, animal suffering, and loss of biodiversity, violence destabilizes communities and threatens the world’s security. At the same time, the illicit financial flows damage financial integrity and negatively impact the economy.  Furthermore, criminals have become more sophisticated in their efforts, making enforcement more challenging. In recent years, they have started to widely use technology, including online marketplaces as well as social media and encrypted digital communication services in their operations (e.g., for recruitment and coordination). This provides opportunities for criminals to enhance their efficiency, but also for law enforcement to detect and trace criminal activity, including financial flows. This panel discusses the many faces of illegal exploitation and crimes of violence, particularly the crucial role played by financial institutions and the support of innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI). Generative AI, with its ability to generate images, text, and sound, offers new and advanced tools for law enforcement and organizations that work to end violence. The speakers will share their experiences in the field and illustrate various practices that can contribute to preventing these devastating crimes, and the implications for the future.