Security Improvements, through Research, Technology and Innovation (SIRIO)
Current and future developments of new technologies can have potentially far-reaching implications, changing the dynamics of security and security governance. Emerging threats posed by these new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, nanodrones, big data and autonomous technologies, need to be addressed in cooperative and innovative ways.
In light of this rapidly advancing technological landscape and need for enhanced cooperation and innovation, in 2016, UNICRI launched its Knowledge Centre “Security Improvements through Research, Technology and Innovation” (SIRIO). Based in Geneva, the Centre brings together experts from the public and private sectors to address emerging security risks through the identification of cutting-edge technological solutions.
Objectives & activities
The Centre aims to engage industry and research institutions (both public and private) as well as governmental and inter-governmental entities to analyse and promote knowledge and technology solutions to address emerging security risks. The main thematic areas considered by SIRIO are: supply chain security, critical infrastructures, cyber-space, as well as potential security risks related to big data analytics, biotechnology and nano-technology, and artificial intelligence.
The Centre is, in particular, dedicated to:
- Identifying and analysing emerging and future security risks;
- Mapping technology innovations to match security needs;
- Raising awareness and informing policy-makers about emerging risks and innovative solutions, while promoting the results of SIRIO’s activity.
SIRIO engages partners through a process that incorporates three steps:
1) Analysis and identification of emerging security risks in the identified thematic areas: UNICRI, together with national experts, develops and compiles risk scenarios, based on existing cases and literature to be discussed in thematic workshops.
2) Mapping of technology solutions: once the scenarios are validated, SIRIO organizes a second workshop with security experts, industry, academia and international organizations to discuss how technology can concretely contribute with solutions to mitigate risks related to the scenarios.
3) Promotion of results: SIRIO organizes briefings to inform its partners as well as the UN Member States about future risk scenarios and technology solutions.
Further information
For general information concerning the scope of SIRIO, please consult the publications and related news pages below.
Publications
- Advances in Science and Technology to Combat Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Terrorism
- Technology and Security: Countering Criminal Infiltrations in the Legitimate Supply Chain
Related news
Technology and Security: Countering Criminal Infiltrations in the Legitimate Supply Chain
Protecting the supply chain security by monitoring and combating food fraud and food counterfeiting
Virtual meeting on supply chain security and trafficking of precious metals
Virtual meeting on Supply chain security and food fraud
Expert Workshop on the Supply Chain Security
Security through Research, Technology and Innovation (SIRIO). UNICRI and SICPA sign a new agreement.
