Faith, Ethics and AI: Shaping a Future for Global Peace

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, particularly autonomous weapons systems and surveillance, poses significant ethical challenges in global peace and security, raising concerns about accountability, misuse, and human rights abuses. Religious leaders, with their long history of addressing the moral implications of technology, have become key advocates for ethical AI, urging policies that protect human dignity and promote peace. Their involvement is highlighted by initiatives like the Vatican’s Rome Call for AI Ethics and the 2024 “AI Ethics for Peace” conference, where they collaborated with tech industry leaders to endorse ethical AI practices. As the UN’s Summit of the Future addresses digital and technological impacts on peace, religious leaders’ participation in policy discussions is crucial for shaping AI governance. A “whole of society” approach, involving diverse stakeholders, is essential for developing inclusive regulatory frameworks and enhancing digital literacy to manage AI’s global impact effectively.

To further explore this topic, the Multi-faith Advisory Council’s Peace and Security Working Group will host a side event during the 2024 United Nations General Assembly to explore the nuances of artificial intelligence and its intersection with religion. Further, panelists will explore how to practically ensure a multi-stakeholder approach in developing policies and programs that address automatic weapon systems (AWS) and other technological impacts to ensure global peace and security.

Register for this event (in person or online)