Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism (AOCE) participated in a workshop entitled "Developing Ethical Frameworks for the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Supporting Fatwa Work," organized by the Global Fatwa Index (GFI), an affiliate of the Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta. This workshop brought together a highly select group of experts, media professionals, religious scholars, and AI specialists to discuss the challenges of the digital age. It took place as part of Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta’s 10th International Conference, titled “The Making of the Competent Mufti in the Age of Artificial Intelligence”.
During his remarks, Dr. Hamada Shaaban, Supervisor of AOCE's Turkish Unit, warned of the growing exploitation of modern technology by in extremist groups. He pointed to incidents where AI-driven avatars were deployed as virtual broadcasters to incite terrorist acts. Further, he confirmed that terrorist organizations have produced more than 5000 AI-produced propaganda items, ranging from images, cartoons, and songs, all of which aim to incite violence and undermine the values of dialogue, citizenship, belonging, and national and human fraternity.
Furthermore, Dr. Hosny Metwally, a member of AOCE’s Persian Unit, emphasized the pressing need for developing ethical and moral frameworks to govern AI use. He also highlighted the grave problems facing religious scholars and muftis in the contemporary world due to the rampant and excessive use of AI applications.
This conference marks the 10th anniversary of the General Secretariat for Fatwa Authorities Worldwide, reaffirming its mission to shape contemporary fatwa practices in light of the fast-changing digital landscape.