Religious Actors and European Union Policies on Artificial Intelligence

The chapter examines the interactions between religious actors and European Union (EU) policymaking on artificial intelligence (AI), highlighting how ethical, legal, and theological perspectives intersect with EU regulatory frameworks. It traces the evolution of EU AI governance from the General Data Protection Regulation to the 2024 Artificial Intelligence Act, situating religious engagement within the broader discourse on fundamental rights and human-centric technological development. It lays out how religious groups and organisations have participated in institutional consultations and ethical debates on AI in Europe, focusing on human dignity, the common good, and the moral responsibility inherent in AI design and deployment. The implications of the AI Act for freedom of religion or belief are explored, particularly regarding biometric data, manipulation risks, and the regulation of AI in media and public spaces. Based on an analysis of the the EU’s “big democracy” model of AI governance, the chapter argues that, even though religion enjoys strong protective recognition in EU regulation, several critical issues remain open. It concludes by identifying areas for further interdisciplinary research on AI, religion, and European democracy.