Mahir Hodžić is a security expert with more than 20 years of experience across the public and private sectors. As the owner of Global Security, the chair of the Organising Committee of the Adria Security Summit, and the publisher of the security trade magazine and online platform a&s Adria, as well as the international media platform a&s Middle East, he plays an active role in informing, educating, and connecting professionals throughout the security industry. In this interview, he discusses the changes brought about by artificial intelligence, the practical application of AI solutions, the risks of automated decision-making, the importance of education, and considers how prepared companies and institutions across the region are to use emerging technologies responsibly. This is part one, of two.
How would you describe the current state of the security industry, and which developments are having the greatest impact on how companies and institutions manage security today?
MH: “The security industry is extremely dynamic and evolving virtually every day. Technologies continue to advance, security threats are changing, user expectations are growing, and new regulatory requirements are being introduced. As a result, everyone working in the sector must be prepared to learn continuously, keep pace with emerging trends, and improve their processes. Case studies and the exchange of experience gained through real-world projects are particularly valuable, as they show us what truly works in practice and what needs to change.
“The convergence of physical and cybersecurity is particularly evident. It is no longer sufficient to protect facilities, networks, and data separately; risks must be managed through an integrated approach. Cybersecurity has become a key priority for institutions and companies because it is directly linked to business continuity, reputation, user trust, and the effective operation of critical processes.”
AI is becoming increasingly integrated into security systems. Where do you see its greatest practical value today?
MH: “I see AI’s greatest practical value in its ability to rapidly transform vast amounts of data into actionable insights and alerts. In video surveillance, AI can identify unusual behavior, reduce false alarms, and support the early detection of incidents. In cybersecurity, it accelerates the detection of phishing, intrusion attempts, and anomalies in user behavior.
“The automation of routine analysis is particularly important because it gives security professionals more time to assess risks and make informed decisions. AI should therefore not replace people, but enable them to respond faster and with greater precision. Its greatest value lies not only in more advanced technology, but also in enabling a shift from reacting after an incident has occurred to proactively identifying and preventing threats.”
Alongside the opportunities it creates, AI also raises certain concerns. What are the greatest risks associated with its use in the security sector, and how can responsible governance, transparency, and human oversight of automated decisions be ensured?
MH: “The greatest risks include inaccurate or biased assessments, insufficient transparency regarding how a system reached its conclusion, threats to privacy, and the potential manipulation of both the data and the AI model itself. In the security sector, a single misidentification or uncritical reliance on an automated recommendation can have serious consequences.
“AI should therefore be used as a support tool, not as a substitute for responsible human decision-making. Organisations must clearly define where AI is used, what data it operates on, and who is accountable for the outcome. Regular testing, decision logs, independent audits, data protection measures, and mechanisms that allow an authorised individual to stop or override an automated decision are all essential. Particularly when decisions affect people’s rights, safety, or privacy, humans must retain the final say.”
How prepared are companies and institutions in the region to use AI as a tool for improving business and security processes, rather than simply viewing it as another technology to purchase?
MH: “Readiness varies considerably. Some companies in the region are already using AI successfully for data analysis, video surveillance, automation, and cybersecurity. However, a significant number of organisations still approach it primarily as a technology to be purchased.
“Legacy systems, fragmented data, and slower procurement and approval processes pose particular challenges for institutions. As a result, the introduction of AI solutions must be gradual and carefully planned.
“AI cannot fix a poorly defined process; it can only repeat its flaws more quickly. The first step is therefore to identify a specific business or security problem, ensure access to high-quality data, assign clear responsibilities, and set measurable objectives. AI should then be tested within a limited process, with the results carefully monitored before its use is expanded.
“The organisations best prepared to harness AI will be those that invest simultaneously in technology, employee training, and responsible change management.”To register for the Adria Security Summit, click here
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