Vatican: Pope Leo XIV seeks global oversight for artificial intelligence

Pope Leo XIV addressed a group of artificial intelligence researchers at the Vatican on Friday, identifying the lack of international institutions as the most urgent challenge in the field. The American pontiff argued that while ethical principles for AI are well understood, the global community lacks the structural bodies required to implement them effectively.

During the address, Leo called for shared standards, independent oversight, and clear mechanisms of accountability. He stated that these measures would allow decisions regarding AI development to be examined and challenged when necessary. The pope also emphasized the need for appropriate remedies to address any harm caused by the technology.

The event was co-sponsored by the Pontifical Academy of Life and the Future of Life Institute. It provided a venue for the Vatican’s internal AI commission to engage directly with external experts in the sector.

Leo’s remarks aligned with his 2026 encyclical, “Magnificent Humanity.” That document urged for strong regulation of AI and insisted that developers prioritize the common good over profit. On Friday, he reiterated the encyclical's core message that the future of AI is not predetermined but depends on the choices made by developers and political leaders today.

The pope also clarified the role of machines in society, stating they are tools rather than persons. He advised against granting legal status to AI or delegating life-or-death decisions to them. Despite these technical distinctions, Leo maintained that establishing an institutional ethical framework remains the most critical priority for the AI race.