- 29 June, 2026
Vatican, June 29, 2026: The Interdicasterial Commission on Artificial Intelligence (ICAI) recently convened its first meeting, officially initiating the work of the newly established body created to encourage coordination and collaboration among the various institutions of the Holy See involved in the study, reflection, and application of artificial intelligence.
The meeting took place at Palazzo San Calisto and included representatives from the Dicasteries for the Doctrine of the Faith, for Culture and Education, for Communication, and for Promoting Integral Human Development, along with delegates from the Pontifical Academies for Life, of Sciences, and of Social Sciences.
The gathering aimed to exchange information on ongoing initiatives, identify shared priorities, and outline the initial stages of a process intended to promote a vision of artificial intelligence that supports human dignity, the common good, and the mission of the Church.
The Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development has been assigned the responsibility of coordinating the Commission during its first year.
In his introductory address, Cardinal Michael Czerny, S.J., Prefect of the Dicastery, pointed to four especially important dimensions of the present development of artificial intelligence: the unprecedented speed of its advancement, its effects on human dignity, the increasing dialogue between the Church and the technology sector, and the significant response generated by the encyclical Magnifica Humanitas.
Special emphasis was placed on the importance of prudent discernment in responding to a phenomenon that presents considerable opportunities while simultaneously bringing increasingly serious ethical, social, cultural, and environmental risks and challenges.
The participating institutions outlined their initiatives and reflections concerning artificial intelligence, referring to studies and projects focused on the scientific, social, ethical, and educational implications of the technology.
The meeting also revisited the journey begun through the Congress on AI Ethics and the Rome Call for AI Ethics, together with the Holy Father’s message on the relationship between artificial intelligence and peace for the World Day of Peace 2024.
Coordination, Formation, and Dialogue
Regarding the role of the newly formed Commission, broad agreement emerged on the need for a dual service.
On one hand, the Commission should encourage internal coordination, information exchange, and reflection on the use of AI within the institutions of the Holy See. On the other hand, it should act as a reference point for discernment and support for the many initiatives being promoted in this field.
Participants stressed the importance of encouraging open dialogue with academic, scientific, and business communities, as well as with Bishops’ Conferences.
They noted that the Church’s reflection must continue engaging with the transformations taking place in society.
Within this context, the Commission observed that a dedicated website could prove helpful in sharing initiatives and facilitating the exchange of information.
Next Steps
Concerning its future course of action, the Commission agreed that it should move forward gradually.
The initial steps may include mapping existing initiatives, gathering themes identified by the various entities, and preparing guidelines regarding the use of artificial intelligence within the Holy See.
Participants expressed appreciation for the first meeting of the Interdicasterial Commission on Artificial Intelligence.
They stated that it provided an insightful overview of initiatives, as well as an opportunity for sharing among the different Dicasteries represented and for experiencing the advantages of coordination.
The Commission is scheduled to meet again in mid-July.
Courtesy: Vatican News
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