Pope calls for robust regulation of AI in manifesto that ponders the future of humanity

Pope Leo XIV released his first encyclical, *Magnifica Humanitas*, on Monday, urging robust regulation of artificial intelligence to prevent its misuse in warfare and corporate exploitation. The document criticizes the 'culture of power' driving AI development, particularly in remote warfare systems, and declares that lethal AI decisions are 'not permissible.' Leo emphasized the need for external oversight, independent regulation, and ethical guidelines beyond abstract corporate ethics, warning that unchecked AI could displace human labor and worsen inequality. The Vatican’s call comes as AI companies like Anthropic and OpenAI—valued at hundreds of billions—race toward trillion-dollar valuations. Leo’s manifesto aligns with growing concerns about AI’s impact on jobs, intelligence, and societal vulnerability, particularly for children and marginalized groups. The pope tied Catholic social teachings—justice, solidarity, and resource equity—to the digital age, framing AI as a test of humanity’s moral and political responsibility. Anthropic co-founder Christopher Olah praised the Vatican’s stance, acknowledging the need for 'moral voices' to counter profit-driven incentives. The encyclical also highlights tensions with the Trump administration, which has pushed for AI deregulation. Leo’s document is expected to influence global policymakers, tech leaders, and researchers, positioning the Vatican as a key voice in shaping AI’s ethical and legal future. The Vatican’s decade-long engagement with Silicon Valley included Anthropic’s participation in the encyclical’s launch, signaling a push for broader dialogue on AI’s human cost. Leo warned that abstract ethics are insufficient, demanding legal frameworks, user awareness, and political accountability. The document’s release follows Leo’s earlier declaration that AI poses the greatest challenge to humanity, framing regulation as both a necessity and an opportunity for moral progress.