Vatican Gets Serious About Ai With New Commission

ROME, May 17 (Bernama-dpa) -- The Vatican is to establish a commission to address the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), reported German news agency dpa.

Pope Leo XIV has approved the creation of the Inter-Dicasterial Commission on Artificial Intelligence to examine the "potential effects on human beings and on humanity as a whole" of AI.

Representatives of several Vatican bodies are to sit on the commission, the Holy See said.

AI is a subject close to the pope's heart. Leo has repeatedly addressed AI — and its potential risks — in speeches and public appearances. He placed AI on the agenda at the very start of his pontificate in May last year, advocating a healthy alliance between technology and humanity that keeps the risks and dangers of AI in view.

The topic is also expected to feature in Leo's first major doctrinal letter. According to the official news portal Vatican News, publication of the so-called encyclical is expected towards the end of the month. Several media reports say the working title of the encyclical is "Magnifica humanitas" ("Magnificent humanity").

The new commission's task is to "facilitate collaboration and the exchange of information amongst the members of the group regarding activities and projects concerning Artificial Intelligence, including policies on its use within the Holy See, promoting dialogue, communion and participation."

A Vatican body will take on coordination during the commission's first year of work.

--BERNAMA-dpa