Pope Leo XIV Warns Against Losing Humanity to Artificial Intelligence During France State Visit

BBC World•Published: Sep 25, 2026 06:14 PM IST

Pope Leo XIV has issued a stern warning regarding the dangers of artificial intelligence, cautioning against the potential loss of human essence within a machine-dominated society. The pontiff delivered these remarks at the Élysée Palace in Paris during the start of his four-day state visit to France, following discussions with President Emmanuel Macron.

Technological Caution: The Pope warned against "losing our humanity amid a paradise of machines," emphasizing the need for ethical oversight in the rapid development of AI.
Historical Parallels: Leo previously compared the risks of unchecked AI to the historical slave trade, suggesting that society faces a danger of normalizing human exploitation.
Diplomatic Engagement: The visit includes high-profile events, such as a massive Mass at the Place de la Concorde and meetings with migrants and victims of clergy abuse.
Secularism Debate: The trip highlights the complex relationship between French secularism and religious expression, with the Pope advocating for religion to remain present in the public sphere.

The Context & Background

This visit marks a significant diplomatic and spiritual event in France, characterized by large public gatherings and high-level political interactions. The Pope’s itinerary includes tributes to EU founding father Robert Schuman and pastoral engagements across various French regions.

Why it matters:The Pope's intervention highlights the growing global debate over the ethical implications of AI. By framing technological advancement as a potential threat to human dignity, he challenges policymakers and tech leaders to prioritize human-centric values over efficiency, influencing the moral discourse surrounding the future of digital innovation.

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