Pope Leo warns of AI's threat to humanity at start of France visit

Pope Leo has warned against the risk of losing sight of humanity amid rapid advances in artificial intelligence, delivering the message at the start of a three-day visit to France that marks his first official papal trip to the country in 18 years.

Speaking at the Élysée Palace, the pontiff said that if the world is to avoid what he described as a "paradise of machines" invading and shaping daily life, there is an urgent need to educate people in ethical discernment — the ability to recognize and act on what is morally right, even as technology becomes more deeply embedded in everyday decisions.

A recurring theme of the visit

The pope's remarks reflect a broader concern he has voiced about the pace of artificial intelligence development outstripping society's ability to govern its use responsibly. He emphasized that AI must remain a tool at the service of people, rather than a force that reshapes human life and relationships on its own terms.

The address set the tone for the opening of a visit that is expected to touch on a range of social and spiritual themes as the pope travels through France in the coming days. His comments add to a growing chorus of global voices — from technologists to religious leaders — calling for greater ethical scrutiny of artificial intelligence as the technology continues to expand its reach.