Pope Leo XIV Calls AI ‘Unprecedented Colonialism’ and Says No Algorithm Can Moralize War

The Vatican unveiled *Magnifica humanitas* on Monday, the first papal encyclical presented in person by a pope. In a 110‑page document, Leo XIV frames AI as a technology that amplifies existing power imbalances rather than a neutral tool. He links the concentration of AI development in a handful of corporations and nations to a new form of colonialism that reduces people to data.

Key facts from the presentation:

- The pope quoted, “There is no algorithm that can make war morally acceptable,” rejecting any claim that software can justify violence. - He invited Christopher Olah, co‑founder of Anthropic and a leading voice on AI interpretability, to speak at the event. Olah has previously refused Pentagon requests to weaponize his models. - The Vatican approved a new commission composed of officials from several dicasteries to share AI research and draft internal policies.

Leo XIV argues that AI’s moral character depends on who designs, funds, and controls it. He warns that a few influential groups can steer information, manipulate democratic processes, and create new dependencies. The encyclical calls for “rigorous ethical restrictions, shared internationally, based on personal responsibility and the protection of civilians.”

The pope also draws a parallel with the Church’s historic stance on nuclear disarmament, urging a similar “disarmament” of AI to keep it from serving power logic instead of human dignity. He stresses that technology is not inherently evil; its impact hinges on its use. By labeling AI a “new power” that can generate digital slavery and exacerbate inequality, he signals a shift in Catholic social teaching toward the digital age.

What it means: The Vatican’s formal stance adds a moral dimension to ongoing policy debates about AI governance, especially regarding autonomous weapons and data exploitation. By partnering with a figure like Olah, the Church signals openness to dialogue with the tech sector while demanding accountability. The newly created commission suggests the Vatican will develop its own AI guidelines, potentially influencing Catholic institutions worldwide.

Watch for the Vatican’s forthcoming AI policy framework and how it may intersect with international regulatory efforts on autonomous weapons and data privacy.