FOSS in times of war, scarcity and (adversarial) AI [video] (fosdem.org)

The recent discussion titled "FOSS in times of war, scarcity and (adversarial) AI" delves into the challenges that the Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) community faces amid rising geopolitical tensions and the influence of artificial intelligence. The presentation emphasizes the dual threat posed by adversarial AI and conflicts utilizing FOSS, highlighting how the very fabric of collaboration that has characterized FOSS could be undermined. With the increasing manipulation of software supply chains, particularly through generative AI models that may introduce subtle, harmful changes to code, the need for vigilance and robust quality assurance becomes critical. This dialogue has significant implications for the AI/ML community as it underscores the intersection of technology, ethics, and governance. While acknowledging the potential of AI to enhance productivity in coding, the speakers warn that unchecked AI could lead to a loss of trust in open-source frameworks. They advocate for a balanced approach that integrates AI capabilities while retaining strict checks and balances to safeguard the integrity of FOSS. The conversation aims to forge a path toward a resilient FOSS ecosystem even in the face of advancing adversarial threats, urging a re-examination of how the community can protect its foundational principles against both geopolitical and technological disruptions.