Key Takeaways
- The Vatican AI ethics seminar took place on 2 March 2026 in Rome, focusing on AI and ethical systems.
- Key speakers included Bishop Paul Tighe and Professor Paolo Benanti, discussing the rapid development of AI and its ethical implications.
- The seminar highlighted concerns such as algorithmic bias and the need for ethical frameworks in AI development.
- Participants emphasized human oversight and technological responsibility for future AI governance.
The Vatican AI ethics seminar was held on 2 March 2026 in Rome. The event took place at the Salone San Pio X. It focused on artificial intelligence and ethical systems. The seminar was organized by the Secretariat for the Economy and the Holy See’s Labour Office (ULSA). The initiative received encouragement from Pope Leo XIV.
Professor Pasquale Passalacqua, Director of ULSA, opened the Vatican AI ethics seminar. Alessandro Gisotti, Deputy Editorial Director of the Dicastery for Communication, moderated the event.
Vatican AI Ethics Seminar Brings Church and Academic Experts Together
The Vatican AI ethics seminar featured several speakers. Bishop Paul Tighe, Secretary of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, participated in the discussion. Paolo Benanti, Franciscan friar and professor at the Pontifical Gregorian University and Luiss Guido Carli University, also spoke. Professor Corrado Giustozzi from Campus Bio-Medico University contributed to the seminar.
Bishop Tighe addressed the rapid development of artificial intelligence since 2022. He described the context using the term VUCA, referring to volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. He noted the influence of geopolitical competition and commercial interests on AI expansion.
Ethical Concerns Highlighted at the Vatican AI Ethics Seminar
During the Vatican AI ethics seminar, speakers discussed ethical risks linked to artificial intelligence. Reference was made to the Vatican document “Antiqua et Nova.” The document examines human and ethical dimensions of technology.
Paolo Benanti discussed how AI systems reflect structures of power. He addressed algorithmic bias and social impact. Professor Giustozzi explained how incomplete data can lead to unfair algorithmic outcomes.
Vatican AI Ethics Seminar and Future AI Governance
The Vatican AI ethics seminar emphasized the need for ethical frameworks in AI development. Participants examined technological responsibility and human oversight. The event brought together institutional and academic perspectives on artificial intelligence governance.