The UK has voiced deep concern at the 63rd UN Human Rights Council in Geneva over Russia's use of artificial intelligence to support influence operations by the Africa Corps and the Wagner Group across Africa. The UK stated that technology-enabled mercenarism presents a serious and evolving threat to human rights, international security, and the rule of law.
According to the UK, unregulated access to AI, cyber tools, commercial spyware, autonomous systems, and digital platforms can extend the reach and deniability of malign actors, heightening risks for civilians, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected regions. The UK specifically mentioned Russian state-directed actors such as the media organisation Rybar, influence organisation 'Africa Politology', and news aggregation network 'Portal Kombat' for exploiting AI to generate disinformation and manipulate online discourse, which it said undermines democratic institutions and regional stability.
The UK asserted that Russia should be held accountable for these activities and their impact on vulnerable communities. It also expressed support for stronger human rights safeguards in procurement and export controls, rigorous due diligence by companies, and increased international cooperation to preserve evidence, investigate violations, and prevent safe havens.