Global Leaders Unite in Berlin to Protect Religious Freedom in AI Era

A global conference on religious freedom, held in Berlin, Germany, from October 8-10, urged international cooperation to address the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on religious liberty. The event, organized by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and Frank Schwabe, the Federal Government Commissioner for Freedom of Religion or Belief, has brought together high-level delegations from 30 countries, including government officials, members of parliament, and representatives from religious communities, civil society, academia, and the tech sector.

Frank Schwabe, Federal Government Commissioner for Freedom of Religion or Belief, emphasized the dual role AI plays in this domain: “AI’s use in search engines, social media, and even the creation of religious services is transforming how people exercise their right to freedom of religion or belief. While it enhances participation for believers in remote areas, it also fuels the spread of hate, disinformation, and incitement to violence, and can be misused to monitor religious minorities. To mitigate these risks, we must work closely with tech companies, civil society, and governments. This conference marks the beginning of a committed international effort to safeguard religious freedom in the digital space, ensuring AI development aligns with human rights standards.”

The International Ministerial Conference on Freedom of Religion or Belief is focusing on AI’s influence on religious freedoms, particularly its role in social media, surveillance of religious minorities, and transnational repression of exiles. The event also highlights projects designed to combat disinformation and promote safe internet practices for various groups, including media professionals and youth. Additionally, country-specific initiatives that foster peaceful coexistence through television, social media, and conflict-sensitive journalism are being showcased.

Germany is co-hosting this event in partnership with the International Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance (IRFBA), a global coalition of 38 states committed to advancing freedom of religion or belief worldwide.

Todd Huizinga, RFI Senior Fellow for Europe, announced the proposed declaration on behalf of the organizers, stating that it will be submitted to IRFBA member states for their consideration.

“We believe this statement could have a real impact not only in safeguarding religious freedom for all, but also in increasing mutual understanding, tolerance, and peace in our pluralistic societies,” Huizinga said.

RFI President David Trimble concluded the event by emphasizing the deliberate and widespread attempt to undermine the foundational truths about God, family, and human sexuality that are central to the major Abrahamic religions. Trimble asserted that when religious freedom is compromised by a reluctance to acknowledge these enduring principles, it ceases to be true religious freedom for everyone.