The use of drones in military conflicts has become one of the major challenges of international law. This technology has become so accessible and affordable that it can no longer be easily controlled or banned. While drones are used in some cases for humanitarian purposes and to save lives, their military and dangerous aspects are on the rise.
Statistics and Evidence Related to Human Casualties
In Ukraine, from February 2022 to April 2025, drone attacks resulted in the deaths of 395 civilians and injured another 2,635 people. According to United Nations data, by January 2026, drones were recognized as the most common cause of civilian deaths. In June 2026, this statistic peaked with 89 deaths and 588 injuries recorded that month.
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In Sudan, the conflicting parties are using a combination of small and large military drones, and according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, over 1,000 civilians have lost their lives in this country due to drone attacks.
Global Consequences of Drone Use
In Mexico, drug cartels are increasingly using small drones to attack civilians, especially indigenous minorities. Recent data shows that in 2025, 8,395 armed drone attacks were recorded by militants in Colombia.
The use of drones has particularly increased in the conflicts in Myanmar and Gaza, where both sides utilize this technology to target civilians. Additionally, in Papua province of Indonesia, the government uses military and small drones to suppress separatist fighters, which directly harms indigenous communities.
These developments indicate that by 2026, drone attacks are increasingly targeting civilians, contributing to a decline in respect for human rights and international laws. If the international community does not act swiftly, this new wave of mechanized violence will only worsen.
Now is the time for global decision-makers to understand how drone warfare has changed in technical, operational, and legal terms. Over the past two decades, with the emergence of new technologies, civilians have become increasingly vulnerable to these threats.
Changing international laws to protect civilians and establish responsibilities in this area is essential. Otherwise, the risks associated with the military use of drones will continue to rise.
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