Behind Every Screen Is a Human Heart: Nuncio’s Message to Young People
Port Moresby: Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming part of our everyday lives, but as technology continues to grow, young people must not forget the importance of human dignity, truth and love.
This was the message of His Excellency Archbishop Maurizio Bravi, Apostolic Nuncio to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, in his address to students of Catholic schools in Port Moresby, during the St. Carlo Acutis Film Festival held at the Catholic Bishops Conference on 17 October.
Speaking to the students, Archbishop Bravi acknowledged that artificial intelligence has many benefits. It can support education, health services and businesses, help people become more creative and make communication easier between people who speak different languages.
However, he also reminded the students that AI comes with risks, including fake news, the misuse of personal information and becoming too dependent on technology.
Referring to Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas: On Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence, Archbishop Bravi highlighted the need to ensure that technology is used responsibly and always serves humanity. His message was a reminder that while technology can help us create, communicate and share information, it should never take away our ability to understand, care for and love one another.
His Excellency encouraged the young people not to confuse what they see online with reality or believe every promise technology makes. Instead, he urged them to pay attention to the real people around them and to listen to those who need help or simply want to be heard.
“Learn to listen to the real voices of people who speak, ask for help, or cry out to be heard. Learn to look at the faces of the people around you. These faces are not artificial. They are real.” he said.
He reminded the media students that storytelling is not just about creating good images or producing interesting content. It is also about recognising the people behind those stories, respecting their experiences and sharing their stories with honesty and care.
As young people continue to explore the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence and other digital technologies, Archbishop Bravi’s message is a timely reminder and guidance.
In a world where AI can create images, write stories and answer questions, the human person must never be forgotten. Behind every story is a person with dignity, feelings and experiences worthy of respect.
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