Google ends its ban on the use of AI for military purposes

On 4 February 2025, Google amended its charter on the use of artificial intelligence, removing its commitment not to develop technologies that could "cause global harm" or go against the principles of international law and human rights. The company now intends to work with governments to develop AI solutions "strenghten national security", leaving the door open to military and surveillance applications.

This change raises questions about the consistency of Google's commitments ot social responsability. In 2018, the company announced a set of ethical rules limiting its involvement in the design of weapons or systems for mass surveillance. However, the new version of the charter no longer excludes these uses, raising fears that AI could be sued to strengthen military or repressive capabilities.

Last summer, nearly 200 Google DeepMind employees signed open letter demanding an end to the firm's military contractq, citing in particular the "Nimbus project", which provides a cloud service to the Israeli authorities and armed forces. The signatories denounced a breach of neutrality and an contradiction with the company's policy in favour of human rights. With this latest U-turn, Google seems to be giving priority to government partnerships and the conquest of defence-related markets.

Several human rights organisations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, are calling for increased vigilance regarding military projects involving AI. They fear an algorithmic arms race and an intensification of mass surveillance. For its part, Google says that its updates aim to clarify the notion of "responsible AI" while acknowledging the need to work with public authorities to "ensure global security".

The changes of direction raise the question of international regulation for the military uses of AI. While research is progressing rapidly, many voices are calling for stricter frameworks, in the same way as for conventional weapons. Internal and external criticism of Google is a reminder that the balance between innovation, security, and human rights remains fragile.