The Vatican issued a stark warning on Tuesday about the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI), urging governments to closely monitor its development and usage. The new document, approved by Pope Francis and authored by two Vatican departments, highlighted concerns over AI’s potential to spread misinformation, destabilize societies, and fuel political and social unrest.
The text, titled Antica et Nova (Ancient and New), emphasizes the need for rigorous regulation of AI technology. “AI-generated fake media can gradually undermine the foundations of society,” the document cautioned. It stressed that the unintentional spread of misinformation, especially through AI-controlled or influenced platforms, could exacerbate polarization and disrupt social cohesion.
Pope Francis has consistently voiced concerns about the ethical challenges posed by AI. In a message sent last week to the World Economic Forum in Davos, he warned global political, economic, and business leaders about the “critical concerns” surrounding AI’s impact on humanity’s future. Similarly, at the G7 summit in Italy last June, the pontiff urged caution against allowing algorithms to dictate human destiny.
The Vatican’s latest guidance delves into AI’s influence across key sectors, including labor, healthcare, and education. It underscores the moral responsibility of directing and using the technology ethically. “As in all areas where humans are called to make decisions, the shadow of evil also looms here,” the document stated.
The Catholic Church, representing 1.4 billion members worldwide, has increasingly engaged with issues at the intersection of technology and ethics. The Vatican’s involvement reflects its broader commitment to addressing contemporary challenges, advocating for AI that serves the common good while safeguarding human dignity.
The document’s release comes at a time when misinformation and the misuse of AI have become global concerns. Experts and governments alike have called for international collaboration to develop frameworks that prevent abuse while maximizing the benefits of emerging technologies.
The Vatican’s stance reinforces the urgency of addressing these issues. “The moral evaluation of this technology will need to take into account how it is directed and used,” the document concluded, urging all stakeholders to ensure AI contributes positively to society rather than becoming a tool for harm.
