Pope Leo XIV has called for stronger global regulation of artificial intelligence, warning that some modern weapons systems are beginning to operate beyond meaningful human control.
Speaking at the Vatican, the Pope expressed concern over the growing use of AI in warfare, particularly autonomous weapons capable of making targeting decisions without direct human involvement. He warned that such technologies could increase the risks of conflict and reduce accountability in war.
While acknowledging the benefits of AI in areas such as healthcare, education, and research, the pontiff stressed that technological progress must remain guided by ethics and human responsibility. He urged governments and technology companies to develop clear rules to ensure artificial intelligence serves humanity rather than threatens it.
The Pope’s remarks come amid increasing global debate over AI-powered military systems, including autonomous drones and advanced surveillance technologies. Human rights groups and international organizations have continued to push for stricter controls on the use of fully autonomous weapons.
