IBM and Microsoft Endorse Vatican’s Ethical AI Guidelines for Responsible Technology Use

IBM and Microsoft have officially endorsed the Vatican's "Rome Call for AI Ethics," a commitment to advance artificial intelligence in a manner that prioritizes the well-being of individuals and the environment, according to the Financial Times. The signatures of Microsoft President Brad Smith and IBM Executive Vice President John Kelly mark a significant moment for global tech leadership in advocating for ethical AI.

Presented to Pope Francis, this pledge emphasizes the importance of developing AI that upholds human rights, particularly for marginalized communities, while also introducing new regulations in areas like facial recognition. The document urges tech leaders to "humanize technology and not 'technologize' humanity," as reported by Novena News.

Francesca Rossi, IBM's global AI ethics leader, stated, "The Vatican may lack technology expertise, but it is rich in values. Our collaboration aims to help the Vatican and society grasp how to implement these technologies aligned with ethical principles."

This pledge is part of a broader workshop on responsible AI organized by the Pontifical Academy for Life, currently taking place in the Vatican. The Academy is encouraging participation from governments, NGOs, industry leaders, and other stakeholders to join the "Rome Call for AI Ethics," alongside tech giants like IBM and Microsoft.

While the long-term implications remain uncertain, this initiative represents a significant symbolic step for IBM and Microsoft in their pursuit of ethical AI development. Last year, Facebook supported an independent AI ethics research center, while Google established an external council to promote responsible AI practices. Similarly, the European Union has introduced its own ethical guidelines for AI, with Canada and France addressing these critical issues. Meanwhile, the White House has urged caution against excessive regulations on AI.