Pope warns of AI risks, calls for global governance framework

The Pope has renewed warnings about the dangers posed by artificial intelligence, emphasising the need for coordinated global oversight at a Vatican gathering this week. His intervention underscores growing concern among world leaders about the pace of AI development and its potential consequences for society.

Having first raised the alarm in May with calls for international rules governing AI systems, the pontiff reiterated these concerns during Thursday's Vatican meeting. The discussion centred on establishing frameworks that would ensure artificial intelligence development prioritises human welfare and ethical considerations.

The Vatican's position reflects broader anxieties among policymakers, religious leaders, and technology experts about AI's trajectory. Concerns range from economic disruption and job displacement to more fundamental questions about decision-making authority and accountability in systems increasingly powered by machine learning.

The Pope is expected to amplify his message during a visit to UNESCO headquarters in Paris on Friday, where he will address an international audience on the topic. His intervention at these high-profile forums signals the Vatican's intention to play an active role in shaping the global conversation around artificial intelligence governance, positioning ethical considerations at the centre of the debate.