Pope Leo XIV Forms AI Study Group Ahead of First Encyclical

Pope Leo XIV Forms AI Study Group Ahead of First Encyclical
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Pope Leo XIV has established an in-house study group on artificial intelligence, the Vatican announced, as he prepares to release his first encyclical, which is expected to focus on the ethical use of AI while prioritizing human dignity and peace.

The move responds to the rapid adoption of AI technologies and their potential impact on individuals and society. The upcoming encyclical is anticipated to frame AI issues within the Church’s broader social teaching, addressing topics such as labor, justice, and human rights. Pope Leo has highlighted the ethical challenges posed by AI, including the spread of misinformation, algorithmic bias, and the potential for autonomous weaponry in conflict zones such as Ukraine and the Middle East.

Since his 2025 election, Pope Leo has called for the Catholic Church to provide moral guidance on AI, warning against technologies that could undermine human dignity or exacerbate social inequities. The Vatican also emphasizes the environmental impact of AI, citing the high energy and water requirements of large-scale computing.

The Pope’s office has encouraged engagement with private tech companies and multilateral institutions to promote inclusive, accountable, and ethical AI development, building on initiatives such as the 2020 Rome Call for AI Ethics, which included commitments from firms like Microsoft, IBM, and Cisco.