The Vatican issued a weighty statement on June 20, 2025, concerning the future of artificial intelligence, calling on the global community to be guided by the "criterion of ethics" in its development. Speaking at a special international conference on AI ethics held in the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV (in our hypothetical scenario) emphasized that human dignity must remain unshakably at the center of all technological progress. As reported by leading global media outlets, including CNN, The Times, and The Wall Street Journal, the pontiff expressed deep concern that the rapid and largely uncontrolled development of AI could outpace the moral and ethical reflection on its consequences for society. He strongly urged scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and politicians from around the world to join forces to create a so-called "algorethics" – a universal system of ethical principles for algorithms. This system, in his view, should ensure that AI serves the common good of all humanity and protects the most vulnerable, rather than being used to amplify inequality or for narrow commercial or political interests. "Technology devoid of a solid ethical foundation risks ultimately turning against its creator – man," world news agencies quoted the Pope as saying. This address is seen as one of the most significant attempts to influence the global discussion on AI from a moral and philosophical standpoint. The Vaticans call, which holds immense influence worldwide, could increase pressure on tech companies and governments to implement stricter ethical frameworks.
Vatican Calls for an Ethical Framework for Artificial Intelligence
