Pope Leo to issue first major work, addressing AI, on May 25

Pope Leo to issue first major work, addressing AI, on May 25

Pope Leo to issue first major work, addressing AI, on May 25

https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/pope-leo-issue-first-major-work-addressing-ai-may-25-2026-05-18/

Publish Date: 2026-05-18 06:55:00

Source Domain: www.reuters.com

  • Pope Leo XIV is set to release an encyclical titled “Magnifica Humanitas” on May 25, focusing on emerging themes such as artificial intelligence and workers’ rights.
  • The document is expected to address global conflicts and provide comprehensive guidance on workers’ rights, reflecting the Church’s historical emphasis on social justice.
  • Contrary to typical tradition, Pope Leo XIV himself will participate in a presentation of the encyclical, accompanied by Christopher Olah of AI company Anthropic.
  • The encyclical carries significant weight as one of the highest forms of papal teachings addressed to the Church’s 1.4 billion members.
  • This marks Pope Leo XIV’s first extensive document, often outlining the priorities and moral views of the pontiff towards contemporary social issues.
  • The pope has previously expressed concerns over the misuse of AI in warfare, drawing criticism from political figures, including former President Donald Trump.
  • The papal document is rooted in the tradition started by Pope Leo XIII’s encyclical on laborers’ rights, underscoring an ongoing theme regarding the protection of workers.
  • The timing of the encyclical’s signing coincides with the anniversary of a similar text by Pope Leo XIII advocating for improved labor conditions.