Pope Leo Warns AI Could Endanger Humanity in 42,300-Word Encyclical

One of the longest papal documents in history was released on May 25, 2026, and it carries a dire message: artificial intelligence threatens the very fabric of humanity. Pope Leo, the current Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, penned a staggering 42,300-word encyclical that outlines five critical ways AI could warp human existence. This isn't just a casual warning; it’s a call to action for global leaders to address what he views as an imminent crisis.

Why It Matters

The stakes are high. Pope Leo’s encyclical comes at a time when AI technology is advancing at breakneck speed, often outpacing ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks. The call for a global effort to 'disarm' AI isn't merely academic; the Pope is highlighting the potential for widespread job loss, increased inequality, and even existential threats. With the global population exceeding 8 billion, the impact of AI on jobs and livelihoods could ripple through economies and societies, pushing vulnerable populations further into despair.

What Happened

Pope Leo's encyclical, titled “On the Dangers of Artificial Intelligence,” was published via the Vatican on May 25, 2026. The document outlines five prominent risks associated with AI: job displacement, ethical erosion, increased inequality, loss of human agency, and potential misuse by malicious actors. The Pope emphasizes that the relentless pursuit of profit cannot justify actions that systematically sacrifice jobs, a sentiment echoed by leaders across various sectors.

He argues that the unchecked advancement of AI could lead to decisions made without human oversight, stripping people of their agency and autonomy. The encyclical calls for international collaboration to create regulations that ensure AI technologies are developed and deployed ethically. This global effort is essential as AI continues to evolve, with implications that could affect every aspect of life.

In a particularly striking section, the Pope warns about the potential for AI to exacerbate social inequalities. He points to the growing divide between those who have access to advanced technologies and those who do not, suggesting that this gap will only widen if left unchecked. The encyclical underscores the urgency for collective action, stating that the future of humanity depends on how society chooses to manage these powerful tools.

What They're Not Telling You

Mainstream media has largely focused on the encyclical's length and the Pope's call for regulation, but the underlying message is more profound. Pope Leo is not just warning about AI; he is challenging the very foundations of capitalism that prioritize profit over people. This perspective is often sidestepped in discussions about technology, which tend to focus on innovation without addressing its moral implications. The encyclical serves as a stark reminder that ethical considerations must guide technological advancement to protect our collective future.

What Happens Next

In the coming months, expect discussions at the UN and other international forums centered on AI regulation and ethical guidelines. With the Pope's encyclical as a backdrop, global leaders will face pressure to address the risks posed by AI technologies. The next critical juncture will be a summit scheduled for September 2026, where world leaders will gather to discuss these pressing issues and outline actionable steps forward.

Axios: 5 ways Pope Leo says AI could warp humanity - Axios

MSN: Pope Leo urges global effort to 'disarm' AI in first encyclical - MSN

The New York Times: Pope Leo Warns of Risks From A.I. in 42,300-Word Encyclical - The New York Times

Business Insider: 3 Big Takeaways From Pope Leo's Letter on AI - Business Insider

NBC News: Pope Leo will take on AI alongside an Anthropic co-founder - NBC News