By Our Correspondent

National News – Pope Leo XIV has called for the “disarming” of artificial intelligence, warning that unchecked AI development could create modern slavery, fuel warfare, and deepen global inequality.

The Pope made the remarks on Monday while unveiling his first encyclical titled Magnifica Humanitas at the Vatican.

The manifesto focused on the ethical dangers surrounding artificial intelligence and the growing use of AI-powered military systems.

Pope Leo XIV said no machine or algorithm should be allowed to make life-and-death decisions during conflicts.

The Pope criticised the increasing global competition among governments and technology companies to dominate the AI industry.

According to him, the race to build more powerful algorithms and larger data systems could threaten human dignity and global peace.

He also argued that the “just war” theory often used to justify military actions is now outdated in the age of advanced technology.

Without directly mentioning Donald Trump, the Pope warned against using religion or technology to defend armed conflicts.

The Catholic leader further raised concerns about hidden exploitation within the AI supply chain.

He noted that millions of workers, including content moderators and miners extracting rare earth materials, suffer harsh conditions to keep AI systems operating worldwide.

Pope Leo XIV explained that AI should remain human-friendly, transparent, and accessible to everyone.

He stressed that innovation and profit should never come before human welfare, environmental protection, and moral responsibility.

The Vatican said the encyclical builds on years of research into artificial intelligence ethics.

Analysts believe the document could shape future global debates on technology regulation, digital rights, and ethical AI development.

The Pope signed the encyclical on May 15 to mark the anniversary of a landmark 1891 Church document on workers’ rights during the Industrial Revolution.