Pope Leo XIV urged global leaders and experts to establish a network for AI governance and seek ethical clarity regarding its use.
Artificial intelligence “needs to have an appropriate human-centered ethical management and regulatory framework, exceeding mere standards of utility or efficiency,” wrote Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin in a message sent on behalf of the Pope.
This message was read aloud by Archbishop Etre Balestrero, AI in Geneva and the Vatican representative of the UN agency in Geneva. The Vatican released a copy of the message on July 10th.
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According to the event's website, the summit, which was organized by the International Telecommunications Union in partnership with around 40 UN agencies and the Swiss government, focuses on promoting innovative AI applications, identification of building skills and standards, and partnerships to solve global challenges.
“Humanity is at a crossroads and faces immense possibilities created by the digital revolution driven by artificial intelligence,” writes Cardinal Parolin on behalf of the Pope.
“Responsibility for the ethical use of AI systems starts with those who develop, manage and oversee them, but those who use them share this responsibility,” he writes.
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“On behalf of Pope Leo XIV, I would like to use this opportunity to seek ethical clarity and encourage the establishment of coordinated and global governance of AI based on the unique dignity of humanity and a shared perception of fundamental freedom,” writes Cardinal Parolin.
“This groundbreaking transformation requires responsibility and identification to ensure that AI is developed for the common good, builds bridges of dialogue, promotes the cultivation of fraternity, and that it serves the interests of the whole of humanity,” he wrote.
Regarding the increased ability of AI to adapt “autonomously,” the message states, “it is important to consider anthropological and ethical implications, the values at risk, and the obligations and regulatory frameworks necessary to maintain those values.”
“AI can simulate aspects of human reasoning and perform certain tasks with incredible speed and efficiency, but it cannot replicate moral identification or the ability to form authentic relationships,” the Pope's message states. “The development of such technological advancements must therefore be closely related, respecting human and social values, a capacity to involve clear conscience and growth in human responsibility.”
Cardinal Parolin congratulated and thanked the members and staff of the International Communications Union for celebrating “their work and constant efforts to promote their work and global cooperation to bring the benefits of communication technology to people all over the world.”
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“Connecting human families through telegraph, radio, telephone, digital and space communications presents challenges, especially in rural and low-income regions where around 2.6 billion people still lack access to communication technology,” he writes.
He contributed to what St. Augustine called the “quietness of order,” writing, “never lose sight of the common goal” of fostering a more humane order of social relations, a peaceful and just society to serve the integrity of the human family and the goodness of the human family.”
