Pope Leo XIV has issued a warning that artificial intelligence must never undermine human dignity, conscience, and moral responsibility. He described the rapid rise of AI as one of the major ethical challenges facing humanity. In his latest encyclical, released on Monday, May 25, 2026, the Pope called for stronger global regulations on artificial intelligence. He cautioned that societies risk becoming dominated by “an algorithmic order” if technology advances without moral oversight.
“In the era of artificial intelligence, it is our pressing duty to remain profoundly human,” the Pope stated. He emphasised that while AI has the potential to enhance healthcare, education, productivity, and public services, it should be used as a tool that serves humanity rather than one that controls human life and decision-making. He warned against reducing human beings to mere data, algorithms, and automated systems, arguing that machines cannot replace conscience, compassion, spirituality, or authentic human relationships.
Additionally, the Pope expressed concerns about the growing influence of powerful technology companies and the concentration of digital power in the hands of a few institutions. He stated that technological progress without ethical accountability could deepen inequality and undermine democracy.
The encyclical further highlighted fears over AI-driven job losses, with the Pope warning that unchecked automation could trigger what he described as a “social calamity” if workers were displaced without adequate protection and social support. He urged governments and international institutions to ensure that technological innovation did not come at the expense of human welfare and dignity.
The document was particularly critical of the use of AI in warfare, with Pope Leo XIV warning that autonomous and AI-enhanced weapons systems threatened peace and undermined human responsibility in conflict situations. He called for tighter international controls on emerging military technologies and cautioned against allowing machines to make life-and-death decisions.
The Pope also rejected transhumanist ideas suggesting technology could surpass or replace humanity, insisting that no machine could replicate moral discernment or the full depth of human experience. Analysts say the encyclical positions the Catholic Church as a major moral voice in global debates over artificial intelligence, labour, democracy and the future relationship between technology and humanity.
The Vatican has described the document as a modern response to the technological revolution of the AI era, similar in significance to past Church teachings on industrialisation and workers’ rights.
Source: William Narh
