New War Technologies and International Law
The Legal Limits to Weaponising Nanomaterials
The desire for humanity and the desire for security have co-existed as long as humans have been alive. As science has become increasingly sophisticated, so have the methods of self-defence by States.
Nanotechnology is already changing warfare by increasing capabilities upon which armed forces are heavily reliant: more efficient energy storage, advanced photovoltaics, and improved military protective equipment to name a few of these developments. Some applications of nanomaterials by the military are both powerful and subtle, and have neurological and biological applications: ‘devices that can infiltrate electronics and seize control at crucial moments, artificial ‘disease’ agents that can rest harmlessly in victims’ bodies until activated by an external signal’.
The advance of the use or contemplation of use of these types of nanoscale applications by the military requires urgent analysis in light of existing international law, particularly in light of their potential effects on humans and on the environment.
- Provides concrete examples of uses of nanomaterials in warfare, including an introduction to the technologies and how they work
- Uses plain language examples to analyse complex scientific and legal questions
- Interdisciplinary approach to link scientific knowledge to existing legal frameworks
Reviews & endorsements
‘Kobi Leins’s book navigates the uncharted territory of international law’s regulation of nanomaterials in times of conflict. She offers an illuminating account of the legal limits already imposed on the use of nanotechnologies in armed conflict as well as the gaps in regulation. The book is both legally sophisticated and practically oriented, concluding with a series of recommendations for scientists, governments and armed forces.’ Professor Hilary Charlesworth, University of Melbourne
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It is coming up
- PUBLICATION PLANNED FOR: November 2021
- FORMAT: Hardback
- ISBN: 9781108835244
- DIMENSIONS: 229 x 152 mm
- AVAILABILITY: Not yet published – available from November 2021
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NOV 2021