Vatican city: Pope Leo warned on Friday that AI must not be allowed to diminish humanity, urging political leaders to ensure technological innovation serves the common good. Addressing members of the International Catholic Legislators Network, the pope highlighted that the rapid development of artificial intelligence is raising one of the defining moral questions of the modern age.

According to Anadolu Agency, the pope emphasized the responsibility of lawmakers not to hinder innovation but to guide it wisely. He called for legislation that promotes scientific and technological progress while protecting fundamental rights and freedoms. Pope Leo stressed that policies should protect users from exploitation, preserve privacy, ensure transparency, and strengthen democratic institutions.

He further cautioned that the rapid development of AI could create new forms of technological dependence, particularly for poorer countries, and risk becoming a tool of 'ideological or economic colonialism.' The pope pointed to concerns over algorithms determining 'who is seen' or remains invisible, as well as digital platforms shaping public discourse without accountability.

Pope Leo concluded by asserting that the world does not need artificial intelligence that diminishes humanity. He added that only by ensuring AI serves humanity will it become not a rival to humanity but a servant of the common good.