Pope Leo XIV says Magnifica Humanitas was shaped by dialogue on AI and concerns over algorithm misuse and declining human agency.
Newsroom (08/07/2026 Gaudium Press ) Pope Leo XIV has said that his encyclical Magnifica humanitas, focused on safeguarding human dignity in the age of artificial intelligence, emerged not only from extensive dialogue with those working in the field of AI but also from growing concerns about the technology’s potential risks and societal consequences.
The remarks were contained in a message signed on the Pope’s behalf by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and released on July 8 during the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva. The summit, taking place from July 7 to 10, brings together governments, international organizations, technology experts, and industry leaders to examine the impact of artificial intelligence and explore how it can be used to address major global challenges.
In the message, Pope Leo XIV underscored the Holy See’s commitment to participating in discussions about the future of AI and its effects on humanity.
“As you are convening to reflect upon AI, which raises some of the major questions of our time regarding the future of humanity, the Holy Father would like to assure you of the Holy See’s presence and openness to dialogue, especially in this epochal turning point,” the statement said.
The Pope’s message highlighted that Magnifica humanitas was conceived as an invitation to broad engagement across sectors of society. According to the Vatican, the encyclical reflects Leo XIV’s desire to foster dialogue with diverse groups in order to identify pathways that promote the common good and uphold human dignity amid rapid technological change.
The document draws upon conversations with a wide range of individuals directly involved in shaping or responding to the development of artificial intelligence. These include scientists and engineers working on AI technologies, policymakers seeking effective regulatory frameworks, and educators and parents concerned about the implications of AI for younger generations.
The message quoted the encyclical as describing its origins in listening “to scientists and engineers who work with sincere enthusiasm on technologies capable of alleviating immense suffering; to political leaders and public officials who have perseveringly sought just rules; to parents and teachers who are deeply concerned for the future of younger generations.”
At the same time, Vatican officials emphasized that the encyclical was not inspired solely by optimism regarding technological progress. Pope Leo XIV acknowledged that concerns over the misuse of AI and the erosion of human control in critical decision-making processes also played a significant role in shaping the document.
“Magnifica humanitas was born from his listening” to those involved in the field, the message noted, but it was “also impelled by troubling accounts of the potential misuses of algorithms and by the loss of human agency in critical areas.”
The statement reflects ongoing debates surrounding artificial intelligence, including questions about accountability, ethical governance, and the balance between innovation and human oversight. By drawing attention to both the opportunities and dangers presented by AI, the Pope positioned the encyclical as part of a broader effort to encourage responsible technological development centered on the human person.
Addressing participants at the Geneva summit, the Vatican expressed support for continued international cooperation and dialogue on AI governance. The gathering, organized by the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in partnership with other UN agencies and the Swiss government, serves as a major forum for discussions on how emerging technologies can contribute to sustainable and inclusive development.
Concluding the message, Pope Leo XIV encouraged summit participants to pursue constructive discussions aimed at ensuring that artificial intelligence serves humanity rather than undermines it. The Holy Father also assured attendees of his prayers as they continue their efforts to harness AI for the benefit of society.
“While wishing you to engage in constructive and enriching discussions, the Holy Father willingly assures you of his prayers in your efforts ‘to serve humanity’,” the message concluded.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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