Prohibition of double-commissioning and of charging for sightseeing

In a time when artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping the foundations of society, Pope Leo XIV has taken a bold step into the center of a global debate with his encyclical Magnifica humanitas. This document, which goes beyond being merely a technological manifesto, calls for the regulation and even "disarming" of AI, sparking widespread discussion far beyond Vatican halls. The encyclical has become a viral phenomenon, drawing attention from scholars, theologians, and technologists alike.

The encyclical emphasizes the need to protect and preserve the dignity of the human person in the age of AI. Prof. Dr. Stjepan Balaban from the Catholic Theological Faculty in Zagreb explained that this is not just a religious text but a social encyclical focused on safeguarding humanity amidst rapid technological change. He highlighted that the document addresses the issue of monopolies over the digital sphere, noting that algorithms, technological infrastructure, and data have become our collective good—yet they are currently dangerously controlled by a handful of corporations.

The encyclical skillfully navigates between two powerful biblical metaphors, one representing a tower of Babel and the other symbolizing the rebuilding of Jerusalem. These images encapsulate the dual nature of AI's potential: both as a tool for division and as a means of unity and renewal. The document calls for ethical considerations and responsible use of technology, urging society to reflect on how these advancements align with human values and spiritual principles.

Professor Peter G. Kirchschläger, a professor of theological ethics and director of the Institute for Social Ethics at the University of Lucerne, has long advocated for international regulation of AI. He argues that the term "artificial intelligence" itself is misleading because while machines can surpass humans in certain areas such as data analysis and computation, they lack emotional and social intelligence. For instance, a robot in healthcare might be trained to show empathy when a patient cries, but ultimately, it does not care whether the patient is crying or not. It simply executes tasks programmed into it, without genuine understanding or compassion.

This distinction highlights the limitations of current AI systems and underscores the importance of recognizing the irreplaceable aspects of human interaction and emotion. Kirchschläger’s work focuses on establishing an international agency under the United Nations to regulate AI globally, emphasizing the need for ethical guidelines that ensure technology serves humanity rather than undermines it.

Meanwhile, the expansion of AI is increasingly evident across the internet, particularly in the realm of marketing. Companies are using AI-generated influencers to promote their products, often without clearly indicating that the content was created by AI. According to reports from The Guardian, new regulations set to take effect in August will require companies to label AI-generated content in the European Union. However, these rules do not apply in the United Kingdom, leaving some ambiguity about compliance and enforcement.

The European Union introduced its first comprehensive legislation on AI in July 2024, known as the AI Act, which sets clear guidelines for developers, users, and regulators. This act aims to harmonize rules across member states and establish a framework for responsible AI development. Similarly, Slovenia's new Media Law, effective since September 2023, includes provisions that clarify the use of AI in media, requiring clear labeling of AI-generated content and specifying accountability for errors in such content.

Despite these legal measures, challenges remain. Deepfake content and other AI-generated materials continue to circulate online without always being properly labeled. Educating the public about AI and its implications remains crucial in preventing deceptive practices and ensuring transparency in digital spaces.

In another significant development, Croatia is addressing issues within the real estate sector by introducing new laws aimed at curbing unethical practices among real estate agents. A key provision of the new law prohibits double commission charges, where agents charge both buyers and sellers for the same service. Additionally, it bans conditioning property viewings on the signing of a brokerage agreement, protecting consumers from coercive tactics.

The law also introduces stricter requirements for real estate agencies, mandating that they have at least one full-time employee and prohibiting the practice of "ghost agents"—unlicensed individuals who operate without proper authorization. Digital systems will be implemented to streamline the process of obtaining licenses and registering agents, enhancing transparency and accountability in the industry.

These developments highlight the growing recognition of the need for robust regulatory frameworks across various sectors, from technology to real estate. As societies grapple with the implications of AI and other emerging technologies, the balance between innovation and ethical responsibility becomes ever more critical. The future will likely see continued efforts to refine these regulations, ensuring they keep pace with technological advancements while safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders.