Religious Leaders Gather in Hiroshima to Promote Ethical AI Development
Religious leaders from around the world are convening in Hiroshima, Japan, to emphasize the importance of guiding the development of artificial intelligence with ethical principles that promote peace. The event, titled “AI Ethics for Peace: World Religions Commit to the Rome Call,” is a two-day forum organized by the Pontifical Academy of Life, Religions for Peace Japan, the Abu Dhabi Forum for Peace, and the Chief Rabbinate of Israel’s Commission for Interfaith Relations.
Signing the “Rome Call for AI Ethics”
The highlight of the event will be the signing of the “Rome Call for AI Ethics”, originally issued in 2020 by the Pontifical Academy for Life and now promoted by the RenAIssance Foundation. This document emphasizes the need to ensure that artificial intelligence is developed with ethical principles that serve the good of humanity. Major organizations like Microsoft, IBM, and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization have already pledged their support.
A Multi-Religious Approach to AI Challenges
The gathering in Hiroshima aims to reinforce the idea that a multi-religious approach to crucial topics like AI ethics is essential for peaceful coexistence and shared values. Hiroshima, with its history as a symbol of the consequences of destructive technology, serves as a poignant backdrop for these discussions.
Shared Responsibility for Peace
Bishop Vincenzo Paglia, President of the Pontifical Academy for Life, highlighted the role of religions in ensuring that AI development respects human dignity and fosters peace. He stressed the importance of cooperation, solidarity, and ethical integrity in shaping a future where technology serves humanity.
Envisioning a Virtuous World
Leaders at the event underscored the need for AI to promote inclusivity, mutual respect, and moral clarity. They emphasized the role of faith in infusing AI development with ethical values and strengthening the connection to the divine.
Embracing Ethical Governance of AI
Speakers, including Father Paolo Benanti and representatives from major IT companies and international organizations, discussed the need for ethical governance of AI. They emphasized the importance of sustained commitment to ensure that AI’s potential is used for the greater good of humanity.
The event will culminate with the signing of the “Rome Appeal” and a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to pay tribute to the victims of the atomic bombings. The commitment of religious leaders to ethical AI development paves the way for a future where technology is a force for peace and progress.
