Åse Gilje Østensen (UiB) in conversation with Astri Suhrke (CMI) and Kristin Bergtora Sandvik (PRIO/NCHS).

Kristin Bergtora Sandvik is Centre Director for the Norwegian Centre for Humanitarian Studies. Her research focuses on the interface between international law, humanitarianism, technology and violence. What are the humanitarian and legal consequences of increasingly automated and autonomous weapon platforms? What is the future of accountability? Currently she is heading a project on emergent military technologies focusing on cyberwar and drones. Cyberwar is gaining recognition as a “fifth battlefield”. It is also becoming evident that a well-organized Computer Network Attack (CNA) may harm Norway’s vital infrastructure. This project proposes to examine the legal challenges that arise with respect to the development of effective international and national strategies to prevent, regulate and resolve cyberwar. How can we develop legal mechanisms and procedures that allow for cyber security threats to be properly assessed? Which legal considerations and constraints should shape the development of civilian cybersecurity institutions? In creating a legal regime for Cyberwarfare, what dilemmas arise?

Astri Suhrke is a political scientist who has done extensive research on the social, political and humanitarian consequences of violent conflict, and strategies of response. Recently, Astri has focused on the politics of humanitarian policies in the UN system, concepts of human security and peacebuilding. She is also working on strategies of post-war reconstruction and statebuilding, with particular reference to Afghanistan. Her most recent book When More is Less. The International Project in Afghanistan (2011), made it to the Choice Magazine's annual Outstanding Academic Titles list in 2012.