14 April 2026

Mr. Chair,

My delegation welcomes the theme of this general discussion: “Population, technology and research in the context of sustainable development.” Technology is already having a real impact on the daily lives of millions of people around the world. When combined with significant global demographic shifts, such as ageing populations, declining fertility rates and increased mobility, this rapid change requires careful consideration of how research and technological innovation can genuinely serve the humanity and promote authentic sustainable development.

The inherent dignity of every human being should guide discussions and inform approaches to technological advancements and demographic policies. In examining the complex relationship between population and technology, it is essential to acknowledge the tangible impact that such decisions have on people’s lives. Therefore, in order for strategies for sustainable development to encompass all members of society, it is crucial to recognise the fundamental human dimension within these discussions.

Mr. Chair,

Technological advances guided by ethical principles have the potential to contribute significantly to sustainable development, particularly in addressing demographic realities. It can enhance access to quality education and healthcare, improve data collection for evidence-based policymaking and promote inclusive economic growth. Moreover, technological tools can play a pivotal role in meeting the needs of persons with disabilities, older persons, those in rural areas, and people on the move.

However, technology cannot truly serve the common good if its benefits remain accessible only to a privileged few. The persistence of the digital divide, both between and within countries, risks exacerbating inequality and creating new forms of exclusion. Limited connectivity, infrastructure gaps, and disparities in digital literacy prevent many individuals, communities and nations from realising the full potential of technological innovation. If technology is to contribute to the realisation of sustainable development, it is essential that these divides are bridged through greater investment in infrastructure, capacity building, digital literacy, and the transfer of technology.

Furthermore, technological innovation, including artificial intelligence, should always be a means of serving human flourishing, never an end in itself. This is particularly pertinent in the context of human relationships and care. As Pope Leo XIV observes, “the systems known as artificial intelligence not only interfere with information ecosystems, but also encroach upon the deepest level of communication, that of human relationships.”[1]

For this reason, particular vigilance is required to ensure that technology complements authentic human encounters rather than substituting them. Care, education and the transmission of values cannot be fully delegated to digital technology. They are rooted in presence, responsibility and love. These realities are most fully expressed within the family, which remains the primary place of care, education and solidarity, even as technology evolves. Therefore, efforts should be made to ensure that technology complements, rather than replaces, the family and authentic human relationships.

Mr. Chair,

Technology should never be used to infringe upon the fundamental right to life. Ethical principles and a commitment to respecting life at all stages and in all conditions must guide technology and research, which should serve the human person. Approaches that treat human life as disposable or conditional will never achieve integral human development, that is the balanced, sustainable, and dignifying flourishing of every person and all people, integrating the material, social, intellectual, cultural, moral, and spiritual dimensions of human life.

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[1] Pope Leo XIV, Message for the 60th World Day of Social Communications, 24 January 2026.