Artificial intelligence, education, peace and dignity
When this year's Message for Peace was made public, some were surprised that the Pope focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI), a seemingly technical topic not directly related to peace. However, if we read carefully, we'll find its fit with the strengths of Francis' teachings. He presents it not as something new, but rooted at once in (i) the biblical tradition on creation and the design given to human beings to care for it and make it grow through the talents and dignity with which he has endowed them (Ex 35:31; Gen 1:26); and (ii) in the Constitution Gaudium et Spes, which declared that "Through his labors and his native endowments man has ceaselessly striven to better his life." Nevertheless, the Pope cannot fail to warn about the risks and dangers of a development of science and technology in general, and of AI in particular, without ethical controls and not placed at the service of the persons' progress and their dignity.
Justice and Peace has always wanted to participate in the dialogue processes of our Church. We have sent our conclusions to the synods in Rome even when we were not asked to do so. Dialogue is part of the spirit in which Justice and Peace was founded. Synodality is characterized as an ongoing process, not an end state. It is based on listening and dialogue among the members of the Church. And its goal is mission, to proclaim the Gospel to the world. On this path, the Church must follow the Gospel more faithfully in order to act with the freedom of the Spirit.
During the month of February, numerous days of prayer, liturgical celebrations and circles of silence were held to raise awareness of the need to work against the scourge of human trafficking. The events began with the 10th World Day of Prayer and Reflection against Human Trafficking, which this year invited us to "Walk for Dignity: To Listen, Dream, Act".
One more year, the nine major nuclear powers - the United States, Russia, China, North Korea, Israel, France, Pakistan, India and the United Kingdom - have refused to sign the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW). What might finally move the nations that have not yet signed the Treaty to do so? Can the Catholic Church stop or slow the hands of the Doomsday Clock that is 90 seconds to midnight?
On the back cover we summarize some of the activities in which the Spanish Commission has been involved during the first quarter of 2024. Among them we highlight two of the networks in which care has gained importance: Church for Decent Work with the celebration #8MIgualdadYDignidad and Connect Yourself for Justice that invites us to live "the Lent of cares". On the other hand, the Platform for Tax Justice proposes some suggestions to increase tax revenue and Justice and Peace Europe continues to engage us to "Face our fears and reconnect the world". Happy Easter path!
Fidel García
Secretary-general