Pope Leo XIV Calls for AI Guided by Wisdom at Rome Peace Conference

Pope Leo XIV sent a message to the inaugural AI4Peace Global Biennial Symposium and International Conference, held September 21 at the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome. His address was delivered by Fr. Andrea Ciucci, Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy for Life.

The pope called on researchers, developers, and policymakers to ensure that AI serves human dignity and promotes global unity rather than deepening divisions. He warned that without ethical guardrails, AI could become a tool for misinformation and "unending war."

"Technological progress must be anchored in a vision of wisdom and charity," the pope said, referencing his encyclical Magnifica humanitas. He described Gospel values as a "compass in the digital era" for navigating rapid technological change.

The conference brought together international researchers, economists, and legal experts to discuss AI ethics, governance, and human rights. Notable speakers included U.S. economist Jeffrey Sachs and Francisco Rojas Aravena, rector of the UN University for Peace.

Pope Leo XIV has made technology regulation a consistent priority since his election. He has repeatedly called for international ethical frameworks to ensure AI serves as an instrument of reconciliation rather than conflict.

The AI4Peace symposium is designed as a biennial event, with organizers planning future editions to track how AI governance evolves globally.