United News of Bangladesh

Pope Leo XIV has called for strict global regulation of artificial intelligence, warning that the fast-growing technology must serve humanity and the common good rather than corporate profit. In a major new church document titled “Magnifica Humanitas” (Magnificent Humanity), the first encyclical of Pope Leo XIV, the pontiff said AI is one of the biggest challenges facing the world today as it reshapes jobs, warfare, and human life. He strongly criticised what he called a “culture of power” driving the global AI race, especially in developing advanced systems used in remote warfare. He said it is “not permissible” to allow artificial intelligence to make irreversible or lethal decisions, warning that such choices must remain under human control. His comments are likely to deepen debate with the United States administration, which has pushed for lighter regulation of AI development. The pope also warned about the growing concentration of data and technological power in the hands of a few private companies, saying it poses serious risks for children, vulnerable groups and democratic accountability. He called for clear laws, independent oversight and stronger political responsibility to govern AI systems. “It is not enough to invoke ethics in the abstract,” he wrote, stressing that binding legal frameworks are needed and that moral standards cannot be set by a small group of tech leaders. The encyclical was released at a Vatican event attended by representatives from the tech world, including co-founder of Anthropic, as the Holy See continues long-running dialogue with Silicon Valley over the social impact of AI. Experts say the document is likely to become an important reference point in global discussions on AI ethics and regulation, especially as concerns grow about job losses and machines replacing human decision-making. Technology leaders and academics said the pope’s intervention raises deeper questions about humanity’s future in the age of artificial intelligence, as systems become more powerful and widespread. In the text, Pope Leo also warned that AI is contributing to the “normalisation of war” by making violence feel more distant and less human. He called for greater transparency in how AI is used in military operations and urged clearer accountability in decision-making chains for strikes involving automated systems. He further argued that traditional Catholic “just war” theory may no longer be adequate in the era of modern warfare technologies. The document also places AI within the broader tradition of Catholic social teaching, linking it to long-standing concerns about workers’ rights, economic justice and human dignity. The pope signed the encyclical on May 15, marking the anniversary of *Rerum Novarum*, a landmark church text that shaped modern Catholic views on labour and capitalism during the Industrial Revolution. He warned that the pursuit of profit must never come at the cost of jobs, arguing that people must always remain the purpose of economic systems, not their tools. The encyclical also touched on historical issues, including an unprecedented papal acknowledgment and apology for the Holy See’s past role in supporting slavery. Vatican officials did not disclose who contributed to the document, but said it reflects years of discussions between the church and technology leaders.

A prize-winning writer from Trinidad and Tobago is at the center of a growing debate over artificial intelligence after questions emerged about whether AI was used in his award-winning short story. The controversy involves Jamir Nazir, one of five regional winners of the Commonwealth Short Story Prize announced on May 14. The final winner is expected to be named in June. Nazir’s story, ‘The Serpent in the Grove’, set in rural Trinidad, was praised by judges for its vivid language and imagery. One judge described the writing as “sublime” and “richly evocative.” However, questions soon surfaced online about whether the story may have been generated or assisted by artificial intelligence. The issue escalated after publisher Granta said it used an AI chatbot, Claude, to assess the text. According to Granta, the system concluded that the story was “almost certainly not produced unaided by a human.” Sigrid Rausing, publisher of Granta, said it remains unclear whether the award may have gone to work involving AI assistance, adding that the story could remain published until a final review is completed by the Commonwealth Foundation. She also noted the irony that AI tools are now being used to help detect possible AI-generated writing. Granta said its editors were not involved in selecting the winners beyond routine copy editing, and expressed concern over growing speculation around the case. Nazir could not be reached for comment, and no contact details were provided by the publishers. The case comes amid wider concern in the publishing world over the use of AI in creative writing, including recent incidents where book deals were withdrawn over similar allegations. The Commonwealth Foundation said it is taking the allegations seriously and has launched a review of the judging process. Its director-general Razmi Farook said the organisation aims to ensure its award system can address the growing challenges posed by AI in creative work. He added that while the issue is complex, the tone of public debate around it has become increasingly concerning. Online discussions have intensified, with users highlighting unusual phrases from the story and questioning its originality. Some have also pointed to inconsistencies in Nazir’s online presence and profile images. Nazir, who also has a poetry book listed on Amazon titled ‘Night Moon Love: Poems For All Those Who Have Loved Or Dreamed Of Love’, maintains a low online profile despite the recent attention. The author’s biography on the Commonwealth Foundation website states that he hopes readers reflect on moral questions raised by his work and the consequences of everyday choices.

Cannes Film Festival is becoming a major forum for debate over artificial intelligence, with filmmakers and industry leaders divided over whether the technology will help cinema evolve or threaten creative jobs. At this year’s festival, AI has emerged as one of the most discussed topics, reflecting growing concern over how the technology could reshape the global film industry. Scott Mann, co-chief executive of AI company Flawless, said the industry appears to be reaching a turning point. “It feels like a major shift,” he said, adding that AI could provide the technological boost the film business needs. AI is more visible than ever at Cannes this year. Meta has signed a multiyear partnership with the festival and set up a presence at the Majestic Hotel. Meta’s AI tools were also used in Steven Soderbergh’s documentary John Lennon: The Last Interview. The film explores a detailed interview that John Lennon and Yoko Ono gave on the day Lennon was killed in 1980. Soderbergh used AI to create surreal visuals to accompany the conversation. While some critics objected to the use of AI, Soderbergh said experimentation is necessary to understand the limits of the technology. Views at Cannes vary widely. Actor Demi Moore, a member of the festival jury, said resisting AI is likely to be futile. Filmmaker Peter Jackson compared AI to any other special effect, while director James Gray said AI may be useful but cannot replicate the depth of human emotion and creativity. Gray urged young people to study literature and the humanities to better understand human nature. The debate comes as Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recently introduced new rules stating that only performances actually given by human actors, with their consent, will be eligible for acting awards. At the same time, the Academy said the use of AI tools will neither help nor hurt a film’s Oscar chances. SAG-AFTRA has also reached a tentative agreement with studios to establish safeguards for the use of digital replicas and synthetic performers. Some developments have alarmed Hollywood, including the unveiling of Tilly Norwood, a fully AI-generated virtual actress, and a planned AI recreation of late actor Val Kilmer for a new film approved by his family. Kent Sanderson, CEO of Bleecker Street, said AI is likely to reduce production costs and make filmmaking more accessible. Cannes artistic director Thierry Frémaux said the festival supports artists and workers whose jobs could be affected by AI. He stressed the need for clear laws and regulations to ensure the technology is used responsibly. Mann agreed that unlicensed generative AI poses risks, but said the technology should not be viewed as a single, all-encompassing threat. He said AI, if used carefully and ethically, could help revitalize the film industry rather than replace the people who power it.

Oscar-winning director Steven Soderbergh has defended his decision to use artificial intelligence in his new documentary John Lennon: The Last Interview, saying he believes filmmakers should be fully transparent about how they use the technology. The film, which premiered Saturday at the Cannes Film Festival, is built around a two-hour interview that John Lennon and Yoko Ono gave to a San Francisco radio crew on Dec. 8, 1980, the day Lennon was shot and killed in New York. During the interview, the couple spoke openly about their relationship, love, creativity, life after The Beatles, raising their young son and songwriting. Soderbergh said he was deeply moved by their honesty and warmth. The documentary uses AI-generated visuals in about 10% of the film, mainly during more philosophical parts of the conversation where there was little archival material available. The decision sparked criticism after Soderbergh revealed it earlier this year, with some in the film industry expressing concern about the growing use of generative AI. However, Soderbergh said he wanted to be open about the process. "Transparency is very important," he said in an interview with The Associated Press. "People should know exactly how this technology is being used." The director said he understands why many people are worried about AI, but does not believe the technology will replace most essential jobs in filmmaking. He said his personal rule is that AI should only be used when it is truly necessary and when there is no better way to achieve a creative goal. "I think a lot of people will use AI in ways that fail those tests," he said. Soderbergh added that each part of the filmmaking process — from writing and acting to costume and sound design will have a different relationship with AI, making it difficult to set one universal standard for its use. Despite the controversy, he hopes younger viewers will focus on Lennon's message. Soderbergh said the documentary highlights Lennon's lifelong commitment to honesty and his desire to challenge the traditional image of the male rock star. "He wanted to tell the truth and ask how we could become better human beings," Soderbergh said.

The Vatican is preparing to release the first encyclical of Pope Leo XIV, a major teaching document expected to call for an ethical approach to artificial intelligence (AI) that puts human dignity, social relationships and peace at the center. Vatican officials said the pope signed the document on Friday, exactly 135 years after Pope Leo XIII issued his landmark encyclical Rerum Novarum. That document addressed workers’ rights, the limits of capitalism and the responsibilities of governments and employers during the Industrial Revolution. The Vatican believes AI raises similar questions today about labor, justice and the future of society. Experts say the Catholic Church is well placed to contribute to the debate because of its long tradition of reflecting on what it means to be human. Shortly after becoming pope in 2025, Leo told cardinals that the Church should use its social teachings to help address the challenges AI poses to human dignity, justice and work. The pope is expected to return to the issue on Sunday during the Vatican’s World Communications Day, which this year focuses on the human consequences of the global race to develop AI. In a message released earlier, Leo warned that people must protect real human relationships as chatbots become more common. He also expressed concern over AI-generated music, videos and deepfakes that can spread false information. The encyclical, likely to be released in the coming weeks, could put the Vatican at odds with the administration of US President Donald Trump, which has strongly supported rapid AI development and opposed many international efforts to regulate the technology. Since the launch of ChatGPT, AI has advanced rapidly, bringing both promising applications and serious concerns. Experts have warned about risks ranging from biased hiring systems to autonomous weapons. The Vatican has been active in the debate for years. In 2020, it launched the Rome Call for AI Ethics, an initiative supported by companies such as Microsoft, IBM and Cisco Systems. The initiative promotes principles including accountability, fairness, privacy and inclusion. The late Pope Francis also called for an international treaty to regulate AI and urged governments to ensure that decisions involving weapons remain under human control. He advocated a ban on fully autonomous lethal weapons, often referred to as “killer robots.” Pope Leo has continued that message. While acknowledging AI’s contributions to medicine and scientific research, he has warned that the technology could undermine humanity’s connection to truth and beauty. The pope has also raised concerns about AI’s role in modern conflicts, including in Ukraine and the Middle East, where increasingly sophisticated drones and automated systems are being used. Speaking recently at Sapienza University of Rome, Leo said the wars in Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon and Iran show how new technologies are making warfare more destructive and less humane.

Asian stock markets were mixed on Wednesday as excitement over artificial intelligence-related shares eased and concerns over the ongoing conflict involving Iran continued to weigh on investor sentiment. Nikkei 225 in Japan rose 0.8 percent in afternoon trading, while Kospi in South Korea jumped 2.7 percent, recovering from earlier losses linked to uncertainty over possible government measures involving AI company profits. In Australia, the S&P/ASX 200 fell 0.5 percent. Hang Seng Index in Hong Kong was little changed, while Shanghai Composite Index in China gained 0.6 percent. Market analysts said strong corporate earnings and continued interest in AI stocks are still supporting markets, but rising oil prices and geopolitical tensions are making investors more cautious. Oil prices slipped in early trading but remained far higher than before the conflict in the Middle East intensified. Analysts said the disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has added to concerns about global energy supplies. On Wall Street overnight, the S&P 500 fell 0.2 percent from its record high. The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged up 0.1 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite dropped 0.7 percent. Technology and chip stocks led the decline. Intel fell 6.8 percent, while Micron Technology lost 3.6 percent. In the bond market, U.S. Treasury yields rose, reflecting expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates unchanged to control inflation. In currency trading, the U.S. dollar strengthened slightly against the Japanese yen, while the euro edged lower against the dollar. Investors are now watching developments in the Middle East and signals from central banks for clues about the direction of global markets.

Visually impaired runners are using AI-powered smart glasses to take part in the London Marathon, helping them navigate routes and track progress more independently. Tilly Dowler, who has Stargardt disease and only about 10 percent useful vision, is preparing to run the marathon after starting her running journey just last year. Training near Buckingham Palace, she is using AI-enabled smart glasses to assist her while running alongside her boyfriend, who acts as her guide. “They are AI-assisted,” she said. “While running, I can ask for live cues, such as what landmarks are around me and how far I have run.” The glasses provide audio feedback, allowing her to listen to instructions while still hearing her guide and music. Dowler said her goal is not about speed but to inspire others facing vision loss and difficult challenges. “I want to show people they can believe in themselves,” she said. She is among a growing number of runners using such technology. These smart glasses combine cameras, microphones and open-ear speakers, using artificial intelligence to understand surroundings and deliver real-time audio guidance. One of the most widely used versions comes from Meta, developed in partnership with brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley. The devices have become increasingly popular, though they have also raised privacy concerns, including fears of recording people without their knowledge. Another runner, Sha Khan, who lost about 90 percent of his vision due to retinitis pigmentosa and Stargardt disease, said the glasses have become essential in his daily life. “It’s like a part of me now,” he said. Khan also uses a guide dog provided by Guide Dogs UK and says the hands-free nature of the glasses allows him to stay focused without handling a phone. He began running in 2022 after being encouraged by the charity, following the impact of vision loss on his mental health. The glasses use a front-facing camera to capture images, which AI then processes into spoken information for the user. This helps runners understand their surroundings without losing awareness. Technology analyst Chris Lewis said such devices add an extra layer of awareness by identifying objects and movement in real time. However, he warned that large events like marathons can create challenges, such as weak mobile signals due to heavy network use, which may affect performance. Experts also stress that the technology should support, not replace, existing tools like guide dogs and mobility training. “These glasses can enhance independence, but they are not a replacement for essential skills,” said Tommy Dean of Guide Dogs UK. Analyst Ben Hatton said reliability remains a major concern. “If the technology is to be used for navigating busy streets, it must work perfectly every time,” he said. Despite limitations, experts say advances in AI are making everyday technology more accessible for people with disabilities. More than 59,000 runners are expected to join this year’s London Marathon, covering the 26.2-mile route from Greenwich to near Buckingham Palace.

Iran has mocked US President Donald Trump with an AI-generated video after he extended a fragile ceasefire with Tehran, sparking a fresh wave of online trolling from Iranian accounts. The video, shared by the Iranian consulate in Hyderabad on X, satirises Trump’s decision to extend the ceasefire at what he described as Pakistan’s request. The post captioned the clip saying, “How was the ceasefire extended? The video is getting viral in Iran.” In the 45-second AI clip, a digital version of Trump, along with Vice President JD Vance and others, is shown waiting at a negotiation table while Iran’s delegation never arrives. The AI Trump is seen posting on a social media platform, saying, “We are having very great negotiations with Iran.” The video then shifts to a meme-style sequence inspired by SpongeBob SquarePants, showing a “2,000 years later” time jump as the characters continue waiting. Later, the AI Trump appears frustrated and tells the empty seats that if Iran does not come to talks, the United States would bomb them. He then asks, “So where are the Iranians?” An aide then hands him a note that reads, “Shut up, Trump.” The clip ends with the AI Trump saying he will extend the ceasefire at Pakistan’s request before leaving the room, drawing laughter in the video. In reality, Trump has said he extended the ceasefire indefinitely following a request from Pakistan, arguing it would give Iran more time to prepare a unified proposal to end the conflict. Iran, however, has said it is still undecided about returning to talks expected later this week in Pakistan’s capital. Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei, quoted by state media, said Tehran entered negotiations in good faith but accused the United States of lacking seriousness. Iran has also said it has not yet decided whether it will attend the next round of talks with Washington. With inputs from NDTV

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) at workplaces in the United States is growing, but many employees are still reluctant to rely on the technology, according to a new Gallup poll. The survey shows that while more workers are now using AI tools regularly, concerns are also increasing about the risk of job losses. Many employees who avoid AI say they prefer traditional methods, have ethical concerns or are worried about data privacy. The poll, conducted in February, highlights a mixed picture of how AI is changing workplaces. Some workers see it as a powerful tool that improves productivity and efficiency, while others fear its negative impact. Scott Segal, a social worker in northern Virginia, said he uses AI to gather information to help elderly and vulnerable patients access healthcare services. However, he also fears that AI could eventually replace his role. “I think people in jobs that can be replaced should start planning ahead,” said the 53-year-old. The poll found that about 30% of employees use AI frequently, either daily or several times a week, while around 20% use it occasionally. Around 40% of workers said their organisations have introduced AI tools to improve operations. Among them, nearly two-thirds reported that AI has had a positive impact on their productivity and efficiency. Managers appear to benefit more from AI than other employees. About 70% of leaders who use AI at least a few times a year said it has improved their efficiency, compared to just over half of other workers. Among employees who have access to AI but choose not to use it, 46% said they prefer to continue working in their usual way. Around 40% cited ethical concerns, data privacy issues, or doubts about AI’s usefulness. About a quarter said they had tried AI but found it unhelpful, while roughly 20% felt they lacked the skills to use it properly. Thuy Pisone, a contract administrator in Maryland, said she uses AI for simple tasks but avoids it for work she can already handle confidently, such as preparing presentations. The survey also found growing concern about job security. About 18% of US workers believe their jobs could be replaced by technology, automation or AI within the next five years, up from 15% in 2025. Workers at companies already using AI are even more worried, with 23% saying job loss is at least somewhat likely in the near future. Despite these concerns, most workers are not overly anxious. Around 70% said they are not very concerned or not concerned at all about losing their jobs to AI. Segal said he is considering starting a healthcare support service if AI replaces his current role, as he believes some human-centred services will take longer to be automated. For now, he said, he is even using AI tools to plan his financial future, including retirement savings.

Viral AI-generated videos styled like Lego animations are being used to spread pro-Iran narratives during the ongoing conflict, with experts warning they represent a powerful new form of propaganda. At first glance, the fast-paced and vividly coloured clips resemble scenes from animated films. However, the content often includes images of war, injured children, fighter jets and US President Donald Trump, presenting Iran as resisting what it portrays as a dominant global power, the United States. In a recent BBC podcast, a representative of Explosive Media, one of the main creators of such videos, acknowledged that the Iranian government is a “customer” of the outlet, despite earlier claims of being fully independent. The individual, who identified himself as Mr Explosive, said his small team uses the Lego-style format because it is easily understood across cultures. The videos are widely shared by Iranian and Russian state-linked social media accounts, reaching millions of viewers. Experts say the content is highly effective. Propaganda specialist Dr Emma Briant described the videos as “highly sophisticated,” noting that AI tools trained on Western data help create culturally familiar messages for global audiences. She said the clips have collectively drawn hundreds of millions of views. The videos often mix political messaging with controversial or unverified claims. Some include references to conspiracy theories, such as alleged links between US figures and the Epstein files, for which there is no credible evidence. In one widely circulated clip, a downed US pilot is shown being captured by Iranian forces. However, US officials said the pilot was rescued by special forces on April 4 and is receiving treatment in Kuwait. The producer rejected that account, offering an alternative version without evidence. Analysts say such content can shape perceptions by rapidly spreading misleading narratives. Some social media influencers have echoed the claims made in the videos, further amplifying their reach among English-speaking audiences. The clips have become more detailed in recent months, depicting specific locations in the Gulf region being destroyed by Iranian strikes. In reality, reports suggest damage in many cases has been limited. The videos are often released shortly after major developments in the conflict, sometimes even before official announcements, indicating a coordinated and fast-moving content strategy. Explosive Media’s representative defended working with the Iranian government, calling it an “honourable” role, and dismissed criticism over misinformation and alleged bias. Researchers say this type of AI-driven messaging signals a shift in how countries communicate during conflicts, bypassing traditional media channels and directly targeting global audiences. While social media platforms have removed some accounts sharing the videos, similar content continues to reappear, highlighting the challenges of controlling such rapidly evolving digital campaigns. Source: BBC