In a powerful message delivered during the 57th edition of World Day of Peace, Pope Francis urged leaders worldwide to advocate for the regulation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ensure its responsible use and prevent potential threats to humanity. The Pontiff, known for his universal peace advocacy, delivered this vital message during a Mass celebrating the 2024 new year and honoring Holy Mary, who holds the esteemed title of Queen of Peace.
The theme of the Papal message was aptly titled “Artificial Intelligence and Peace,” highlighting the Pope’s concern for the ethical use of technology in today’s rapidly advancing world. Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, the Lagos Catholic Archbishop, conveyed the message to the faithful during a Mass held at the Holy Cross Cathedral Lagos, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the ethical implications of AI.
Pope Francis, considering the new year as a time of grace bestowed by the Lord, extended his wishes for peace to God’s people, leaders of nations, heads of states and governments, religious leaders, civil society, and all individuals of our time. He called upon leaders to take prompt action in regulating the use of AI, citing the scriptures that acknowledge God’s endowment of spirit upon human beings to acquire skills and understanding.
Highlighting the dignity inherent in human intelligence as an expression of the Creator’s design, Pope Francis emphasized that when humans, aided by technology, strive to make the Earth a dwelling worthy of all humanity, they fulfill God’s plan. However, he cautioned that advancements in science and technology, particularly in the realm of AI, bring with them unprecedented control over reality, posing potential risks to humanity.
Expressing concern over the uncontrolled use of artificial intelligence, the Pope warned that it could destabilize the world in various facets. He stressed the critical role of regulation in harnessing AI for the promotion of humanity, peace, commerce, agriculture, and the prevention of wars in society. Conversely, Pope Francis cautioned that the abuse of AI could endanger peace, commerce, agriculture, and engulf the world in unforeseen challenges.
The Pope elucidated that artificial intelligence encompasses a diverse range of realities, and its development cannot be presumed to be inherently beneficial to humanity and global peace. Positive outcomes, he asserted, would only be achieved if humanity acts responsibly and upholds fundamental values such as inclusion, transparency, security, equity, privacy, and reliability.
In a call to action, Pope Francis hoped that his message would inspire global efforts to ensure the responsible development of AI, serving the cause of human fraternity and peace. He emphasized that the responsibility to regulate AI is not confined to a select few but rests upon the entire human family.
Defining peace as the fruit of recognizing and welcoming others in their inalienable dignity, Pope Francis underscored the importance of cooperation and commitment in seeking the integral development of all individuals and peoples. He concluded with a prayer that the rapid development of AI in the new year would not exacerbate existing inequalities and injustices prevalent in the contemporary world.
As the Pope’s message reverberates globally, it sparks crucial conversations about the ethical use of AI, prompting leaders, policymakers, and the broader human community to collectively shape a future where technological advancements align with the values of peace, inclusion, and human dignity.
