Pope Leo XIV: AI risks

Pope Addresses AI Concerns

The newly appointed Pope Leo XIV is confronting the technocracy of artificial intelligence. Popes have historically addressed significant challenges, and in 2025, Pope Leo XIV is focused on limiting the risks of uncontrolled AI. In his initial address to cardinals, he spoke of AI's dangers to “human dignity, justice and labor.” Speaking to reporters, he acknowledged technology's “immense potential” but stressed the need for responsible use “to ensure that it can be used for the good of all.”

Echoes of the Past

Like Pope Leo XIII, who championed workers' rights during the industrial revolution, Leo XIV is acting as a guardian of society amid modern technologies. According to a Vatican spokesperson, Cardinal Robert Prevost's choice of papal name was deliberate. Paolo Benanti, a Franciscan friar and Vatican advisor on AI ethics, stated that the church should “look to the heavens but also to walk on earth according to the times,” adding that the church offering expertise in a futuristic field is not unusual.

AI Risks and Ethical Concerns

Maria Savona, an economics of innovation professor at Luiss University in Rome and Sussex University, said the Vatican aims to prevent AI developments that could harm human rights and dignity, potentially affecting lower-skilled workers. Ethicists, philosophers, and tech leaders have cautioned against creating intelligent life forms. Elon Musk, owner of X and developer of the AI bot Grok, has warned against the reckless development of AI.

Vatican's Role in AI Ethics

Leo's predecessor initiated efforts to address AI regulation. In 2020, Pope Francis gathered religious and political figures and tech companies like IBM and Cisco to sign the Rome Call for AI Ethics, promoting accountable and beneficial AI technologies. In January, the Vatican issued a statement warning that AI could lead to humanity becoming “enslaved to its own work.” As the first pope from the U.S. and a mathematics graduate, Leo is well-positioned to advance this cause.

Global Perspectives on AI Regulation

While Washington is pursuing deregulation, and the EU is modifying its AI Act to focus on competitiveness, leaders at an AI summit in Paris prioritized deals over safeguards. Benanti believes the church, as “an expert in humanity,” can inspire leaders to create AI that prioritizes social justice. In Leo's initial discussion with Italian leader Giorgia Meloni, they committed to advancing “an ethical and human-centered development of artificial intelligence.” Last year, Francis spoke to G7 leaders on AI ethics at Meloni's invitation.

Impact and Influence

Savona noted that Francis showed significant interest in climate change, viewing it as a contemporary issue. The church's mission involves upholding core principles while adapting to the world. The Vatican could leverage its global network to promote more democratic access to AI and advocate for standardized regulation. Savona said this would be very useful. According to Savona, the pontiff understands that the church can provide guidance in a changing world, promoting respect for human dignity and demonstrating how technical innovation can support social care. A YouTube video falsely depicted Leo praising Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traoré. The Vatican identified the video as a deepfake.

Historical Context and Future Influence

Benanti said the conflict between faith and technology is contemporary. Many scientists throughout history have been believers. Leo's effectiveness will depend on his ability to influence others. “The Vatican has very powerful moral suasion. It has a very authoritative voice,” Savona said.

Ukraine’s Zelenskyy met with U.S.’s Vance and the new pontiff at the Vatican. The Holy See’s top diplomat called the failure of the Russia-Ukraine meeting in Istanbul “tragic.” Support in the papal conclave was around a leader who may challenge the U.S. president’s agenda, particularly on migration. The new pope signals continuity with Francis’ progressivism.