Vatican City: In a powerful message to global experts gathered at the Second Annual Rome Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of ensuring that Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI, remains a tool in service of humanity especially the younger generation and never a force that compromises their intellectual or moral development.
The Pope praised AI as an “astonishing achievement of human ingenuity,” capable of transforming medicine, science, and communication. However, he cautioned that its rapid evolution must be accompanied by serious ethical reflection. “AI must remain our servant, not our master,” he stated. “We cannot afford to let machines diminish the value of what makes us truly human our ability to seek truth, beauty, and meaning.”
Expressing deep concern for children and adolescents, Pope Leo highlighted the potential of AI to interfere with neurological growth and identity formation. “It is our shared responsibility to ensure that AI supports, rather than stunts, the maturity and moral awareness of our youth,” he said. “They are the future, and we must safeguard their God-given potential with care and discernment.”
The Pope reminded listeners that access to vast data through AI does not equal true intelligence. “True wisdom,” he explained, “is not the storage of information, but the understanding of life’s purpose and the call to goodness.” While AI can be used for great good, he warned it also bears risks such as manipulation, social inequality, or conflict if not governed responsibly.
He welcomed the conference’s decision to host its second session within the Apostolic Palace, saying it reflects the Church’s genuine commitment to being part of these global conversations. “The Church stands ready to offer its voice,” he said, “not just to explore AI’s technical possibilities, but to affirm that its governance must always uphold human dignity.”
Pope Leo called for a balanced approach, one that evaluates AI not just for economic or technological merit, but for how it contributes to the integral development of humanity spiritually, intellectually, and socially. He urged experts and decision-makers to protect the cultural and moral richness of all people, recognizing the uniqueness of each human life.
In closing, the Pope underlined that guiding the next generation to handle AI wisely is part of a broader intergenerational mission. “Our challenge is to help young people use AI not as a substitute for thought or virtue, but as a support in their journey toward responsibility, solidarity, and truth.”
Calling this task “immensely important,” Pope Leo concluded with encouragement: “Yours is no small responsibility but it is essential for the future of a more human, united world.”