Pope Leo warns of AI apocalypse risks, calls for global regulation

IBM: IBM is a major technology company that has previously collaborated with the Vatican on initiatives promoting ethical AI development focused on serving humanity rather than solely pursuing profit or replacing workers. Vatican: The Vatican, or Holy See, has been publicly addressing potential dangers of artificial intelligence since 2019 through conferences and statements. Under Pope Leo, it continues to push for international regulation, emphasizing that no country should address AI risks in isolation. The institution has engaged with tech leaders and global bodies on ethical guidelines for the technology. Pope Leo: Pope Leo is the first US-born pope and has made warnings about the risks of artificial intelligence a central theme of his papacy since taking office. He has repeatedly called for global rules to govern the AI industry, highlighting dangers including the spread of misinformation and the development of autonomous weapons. His advocacy builds on earlier Vatican efforts and includes a major encyclical document issued in May. Microsoft: Microsoft is a major technology company that has previously collaborated with the Vatican on initiatives promoting ethical AI development focused on serving humanity rather than solely pursuing profit or replacing workers. Rev. Paolo Benanti: Rev. Paolo Benanti serves as a leading Vatican advisor on AI issues and is an Italian academic who recently participated in an AI summit hosted by Britain's King Charles. He has stressed the unpredictable societal changes that could result from AI's transformative power and noted the Vatican's ongoing dialogue with various stakeholders on the topic. Cardinal Pietro Parolin: Cardinal Pietro Parolin is the Vatican's top diplomat and has reiterated Pope Leo's calls for international regulation of artificial intelligence. He has warned that the future of humanity is at stake and that establishing common global rules is essential to govern the technology responsibly. Vatican Advocacy: The Vatican began issuing public warnings about AI risks in 2019 and has consistently compared concerns over generative AI to longstanding calls for nuclear disarmament. US Church Response: US bishops have formed a new AI taskforce following meetings with technology executives to address ways to keep artificial intelligence systems at the service of humanity. Industry Engagement: CEOs from leading AI firms including Anthropic, OpenAI, and xAI have recently endorsed calls for a slowdown in AI development, aligning with earlier Vatican concerns.