Pope Leo calls for an ethical AI framework in a message to tech execs gathering at the Vatican

Pope Leo XIV has urged technology firms involved in artificial intelligence to adhere to an ethical framework that prioritizes human dignity. In a message delivered on Friday to a gathering of Vatican officials and Silicon Valley leaders, the pope emphasized that AI should consider the holistic well-being of individuals—materially, intellectually, and spiritually. Highlighting the unprecedented access to information that AI provides, the pope warned against equating vast data access with genuine intelligence. His concerns extended to the effects of AI on children's intellectual and neurological growth, advocating for their ability to nurture their innate talents and capabilities. This statement was made during the second day of a two-day conference in Rome focused on the societal and ethical ramifications of AI. The Rome Conference on AI brought together representatives from major tech organizations like Google, OpenAI, and IBM, alongside academics from prestigious institutions such as Harvard and Stanford, as well as officials from the Holy See. As AI technology rapidly evolves, it holds the potential to enhance productivity, accelerate scientific research, and even combat diseases. However, it also poses risks, including job displacement, the spread of misinformation, environmental degradation, and the development of advanced weaponry and surveillance technologies. Some tech leaders have expressed resistance to regulations aimed at ensuring responsible AI use, arguing that such measures could impede innovation and global competitiveness. The pope acknowledged that while AI can be harnessed for noble purposes—such as promoting equality—there is also a significant risk of misuse for personal gain or inciting conflict. Despite lacking direct regulatory authority, the Vatican has increasingly voiced its stance on AI policy, advocating for ethical technological advancements. In 2020, the Vatican convened an event that brought together tech leaders and EU regulators, resulting in the Rome Call for AI Ethics—a set of principles aimed at guiding AI development responsibly. Prominent companies, including IBM and Microsoft, signed on to these ethical guidelines. Two years later, the late Pope Francis advocated for an international treaty to regulate AI use and prevent the emergence of a “technological dictatorship.” In his discussions, he raised alarms about the implications of AI in warfare, surveillance, electoral processes, and societal inequality. Since taking office last month, Pope Leo XIV has indicated a commitment to continuing the work initiated by his predecessor regarding church reform and addressing the challenges posed by AI in relation to human dignity. He chose to adopt the name of Pope Leo XIII, who notably supported workers' rights during the industrial revolution. In light of the current advancements in AI, Leo has proposed that the church's social teachings be applied to navigate the complexities of new technologies. During the Vatican event, discussions centered on the governance of AI, focusing on how tech companies can balance profit generation with ethical responsibilities. This dialogue is particularly urgent as the United States considers deregulating existing AI regulations. In his statement, Pope Leo XIV called on tech leaders to respect the unique qualities of the human person while striving to establish an ethical framework for AI development.