Pope Leo XIV has called for the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) to ensure its use benefits the common good rather than profit. This statement was made in his first encyclical, titled "Magnifica Humanitas: On Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence," released on May 25, 2026. The encyclical coincides with the 135th anniversary of Pope Leo XIII's encyclical, "Rerum novarum."
In the document, the Pope emphasizes that while technology is not inherently evil, it is influenced by those who create and use it. He argues against allowing AI to make irreversible decisions, stressing the importance of personal responsibility and accountability in technology development. He warns of the dangers posed by unchecked technological advancement and advocates for AI to be disarmed and made accessible.
The Pope's remarks may reignite tensions between the Vatican and the Trump administration, particularly regarding the Pentagon's dealings with AI companies. Earlier this year, the Pentagon identified Anthropic, a leading AI firm, as a "supply chain risk" amid ongoing legal disputes. Additionally, the Pope has previously faced criticism from former President Trump for his comments on various issues, including the war in Iran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently met with Pope Leo to address these tensions.