Pope Leo XIV Issues Major AI Ethics Encyclical

Pope Leo XIV released “Magnifica Humanitas” on May 25, 2026, marking his first major papal encyclical focused on artificial intelligence ethics ^[1]. The 42,300-word theological document warns against a growing “culture of power” in technology development ^[1][3]. The Pope emphasizes that technology must remain a tool to serve human dignity rather than replace it ^[1][2].

The text specifically calls for robust international regulations to manage the risks of autonomous warfare and shifting labor markets ^[1][2]. According to the Vatican, these frameworks are necessary to prevent technology from harming vulnerable populations ^[2][3]. The encyclical urges global leaders to prioritize ethical considerations over economic or military gains ^[1][2].