Pakistani cybersecurity researcher and communication strategist Zaheema Iqbal was invited to deliver a talk at the Global Conference on AI, Security and Ethics 2026, organized by the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) in Geneva. The two day international conference, held on June 18 and 19 at the Palais des Nations, brought together diplomats, policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, military experts, civil society representatives, and technology specialists to discuss the growing implications of artificial intelligence on international peace and security. The event focused on advancing dialogue around AI governance, ethics, security frameworks, and practical applications of emerging technologies in defense and public policy.
Zaheema Iqbal participated as a speaker during the conference’s Technology track, contributing a lightning talk titled “Bridging the Algorithmic Gap: A Universal Data Neutrality Protocol for the Military AI Trade.” She delivered the presentation alongside Prof. Muhammad Khurram Khan of King Saud University. The session formed part of the conference’s Applications and Integration theme, which explored responsible AI implementation, infrastructure dependencies, counter AI capabilities, human centered governance, and the broader challenges associated with integrating artificial intelligence into security environments. Her presentation addressed the importance of data neutrality, transparency, and governance mechanisms in AI systems used within defense and security settings. The discussion highlighted the need for frameworks that can support trust, interoperability, and responsible deployment while reducing the risks associated with biased or unevenly distributed datasets.
The Global Conference on AI, Security and Ethics 2026 was convened at a time when artificial intelligence continues to move to the center of international policy discussions. According to UNIDIR, AI systems are increasingly shaping national, regional, and global security environments, making governance and international cooperation key priorities for governments and stakeholders worldwide. The conference agenda reflected these developments through discussions on algorithmic bias, dual use technologies, agentic AI, AI assurance, military applications, infrastructure resilience, and international legal considerations. Participants also examined how recent United Nations initiatives and resolutions are influencing practical approaches to AI governance and the development of norms for responsible use. Senior officials, academics, industry experts, and representatives from international organizations contributed to thematic sessions and policy discussions throughout the event.
Zaheema Iqbal’s participation reflects Pakistan’s continued engagement in international conversations surrounding cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital governance. A former naval officer, she has contributed to cybersecurity awareness and strategic communications initiatives through her work with the Global Foundation for Cyber Studies and Research in Washington, D.C. She also served as Programme Envoy for Women in Cybersecurity for Pakistan with the International Telecommunication Union from 2022 to 2023. Her research contributions include work on cyber threats affecting Pakistan’s digital landscape, responsible use of AI for child protection in virtual environments, and studies examining cyber terrorism and digital security challenges. Through her ongoing research, professional development, and policy engagement, she continues to contribute to discussions focused on the safe, ethical, and responsible use of emerging technologies on both national and international platforms.
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