International Conference on AI and Medicine Concludes in Rome
The international conference “AI and Medicine: The Challenge of Human Dignity” took place in Rome from 10 to 12 November 2025 at the General Curia of the Society of Jesus.
The event was organised by the International Federation of Catholic Medical Associations (FIAMC) and the Pontifical Academy for Life (PAV) and consisted of four working sessions focused on the impact of artificial intelligence on medicine, including ethical implications, risks, and opportunities.
Pope Leo XIV sent a message to the conference participants which included young researchers alsongside academics. The Pope’s message was read by Monsignor Renzo Pegoraro, President of the PAV at the beginning of the sessions.
In his message, the Pope noted the significant benefits to humanity of technological developments, particularly in the fields of medicine and health.
He stated: “To ensure authentic progress, it is essential that human dignity and the common good remain absolute priorities for everyone, both individuals and public institutions.”
Pope Leo also warned of the dangers of technology when misused: “It is easy to recognise the destructive potential of technology and even medical research when they are put at the service of anti-human ideologies. In this sense, historical events serve as a warning: the tools at our disposal today are even more powerful and can have an even more devastating effect on the lives of individuals and peoples.”
The Pope added that these tools can be transformative and beneficial when placed at the service of the human person.
Participants attended Holy Mass presided over by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and signed a final declaration on 11 November.
The declaration stated: “Some profound dimensions of patient care cannot be replaced by optimised numerical procedures and autonomous robots. They involve empathetic gestures, tender looks, and dedicating time without any consideration for effectiveness or profitability. AI cannot make us forget that medicine is not just a science or a technique, but a human way of supporting patients in their suffering.”
The conference concluded with a meeting with Pope Leo XIV during the General Audience on 12 November.
