Pope Leo Calls for AI That Strengthens Peace

Pope Leo XIV called on Monday for the development of artificial intelligence systems that do not deepen social divisions but instead strengthen peace initiatives. In a message to participants at the AI4Peace conference in Rome, he said that in a world marked by conflict and division, the development of artificial intelligence requires a vision inspired by wisdom and charity.

According to the pope, AI systems should serve the dignity of every person and strengthen the bonds that unite the human family.

Leo has made the potential risks of artificial intelligence a major theme of his papacy, first raising the issue publicly on his third day as pope. In his first major document, published in May, he warned that AI systems spread misinformation and prioritize conflict. At the same time, he called for international regulation of the industry.

Monday’s conference was hosted by the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome. Andrea Ciucci, chancellor of the Pontifical Academy for Life, read the pope’s message to participants. Speakers included US economist Jeffrey Sachs, Rome City Council President Svetlana Celli and Francisco Rojas Aravena, rector of the United Nations University for Peace.

(Reuters, max)