At a conference in Geneva on October 5, 2026, Archbishop Ettore Balestrero, the Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations, highlighted the necessity of keeping human dignity at the core of technological innovation in agriculture. Co-organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Permanent Mission of the Holy See, the event, titled “Human-Centered AI for Agrifood Systems: From Ethics to Implementation,” addressed how artificial intelligence can be harnessed ethically to combat global hunger.
In his opening remarks, Archbishop Balestrero described widespread hunger in an era of advanced technological capabilities as an ethical aberration and a collective failure. Calling attention to the staggering reality that hundreds of millions of people worldwide lack adequate nutrition, he stressed that technology alone cannot resolve hunger without conscientious human action and determination. He emphasized that while artificial intelligence offers vast potential to bridge inequality and improve access to resources, it also carries the risk of widening existing gaps if not implemented responsibly.
The Permanent Observer outlined several practical benefits that AI can bring to agrifood systems, particularly for smallholder farmers. When applied effectively, digital tools can provide crucial early warning systems, expand access to agricultural knowledge, and improve market reach, ultimately boosting productivity and resilience. However, drawing on teachings from the Holy See, Archbishop Balestrero reminded attendees that technology is inherently non-neutral and must be governed carefully to support integral human development.
Concluding his address, Archbishop Balestrero urged the international community and industry stakeholders to establish strong ethical frameworks and clear regulatory oversight for AI in agriculture. He asserted that governing technology responsibly is essential to preventing misuse, ensuring fair access, and fulfilling the age-old moral responsibility of feeding the hungry.