Preserving Human Voices and Faces: The Theme of the 60th World Day of Social Communication
By Christopher Wells and Isabella de Carvalho
On May 17, 2026, the world will celebrate the 60th World Day of Social Communication. Pope Leo XIV has chosen “Preserving human voices and faces” as the poignant theme for this milestone event. This choice reflects a deep concern over the transformative impact of modern technology on communication and human interaction.
Navigating Today’s Communication Landscape
In a recent announcement, the Dicastery for Communication, the body responsible for the World Day, shed light on the prevalent challenges in our evolving communication ecosystems. With advancements in technology shaping how we communicate—be it through algorithms that curate our news feeds or AI systems that can generate entire conversations—the need for human judgment has never been more critical. The Dicastery emphasizes that while technology offers possibilities that were unimaginable just a few years ago, it cannot replace the uniquely human traits of empathy, ethics, and moral responsibility.
The essence of public communication, the statement argues, isn’t merely about data patterns. It requires discernment and the innate ability to connect with others on a deeper level. Therefore, the challenge for humanity is to ensure that as we progress technologically, we do not lose sight of our fundamental human qualities. The goal must be to use machines as tools for enhancing human connections rather than diminishing them.
Risks Associated with Artificial Intelligence
One of the significant concerns associated with the rise of modern technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI), is the potential for misuse. The Dicastery warns of the dangers posed by AI, such as the generation of misleading or harmful information, replication of societal biases, and the amplification of disinformation through the simulation of human voices and faces. These risks highlight how technology, when unchecked, can invade personal privacy and erode trust.
Moreover, the overreliance on AI can weaken critical thinking and creativity—vital skills in any society. The centralization of power that accompanies monopolized technological systems raises alarming questions about inequality and the distribution of information. Thus, there is an urgent call for integrating “Media Literacy” and even “Media and Artificial Intelligence Literacy (MAIL)” into educational systems. These initiatives are vital for equipping individuals, especially the youth, with the necessary skills to navigate this complex landscape effectively.
Pope Leo’s Vision for the Future
Pope Leo XIV has consistently highlighted the importance of the Church in addressing the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. Following his election, he expressed that his choice of name was inspired by Pope Leo XIII, who addressed social issues during the first industrial revolution.
In this contemporary context, Pope Leo XIV articulates the Church’s role in providing a moral framework to navigate the ethical complexities of our time. In remarks made to participants of the Second Annual Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Ethics, and Business Governance, the Pope reaffirmed that the evaluation of AI’s benefits and risks must align with the ethical imperative of safeguarding human dignity.
He aptly notes that technology should serve humanity while respecting the rich cultural and spiritual diversity of the world’s peoples. This approach mirrors the Church’s long-standing commitment to social teaching, aimed at promoting justice, dignity, and labor rights.
A Call to Action
As we approach the 60th World Day of Social Communication, the message is clear: the preservation of human voices and faces is not merely a thematic choice but a call to action. The significance of this theme resonates deeply in our increasingly digital world, where the essence of communication must remain rooted in human values. The challenge ahead lies in ensuring that as we embrace technological advancements, we do so with a conscious effort to preserve our humanity.
For more insights into this topic, you can check the full statement from the Dicastery for Communication here.
