Pope Leo XIV Warns Against AI During France Visit

Pope Leo XIV began a four-day state visit to France on September 25, the first papal visit to the country in 18 years. During speeches at the Élysée Palace and UNESCO headquarters in Paris, the first US-born pope warned that artificial intelligence could create a "paradise of machines" that risks undermining humanity and degrading human dignity by prioritizing efficiency over the inalienable value of the person.

Beyond technology, the pontiff criticized the current state of global diplomacy, stating that the United Nations and other multilateral groups face a "crisis of effectiveness" where international dialogue risks becoming a "charade." He further condemned the nuclear deterrence doctrine as "mistaken" and expressed support for press freedom.

Throughout the visit, the Pope clashed with the French Republic over its secular laws, specifically criticizing the constitutional right to abortion and legislation allowing assisted dying for the incurably ill. His itinerary includes a prayer service at the restored Notre-Dame cathedral, a youth gathering at the Stade de France, and a major Mass at Place de la Concorde.

In an effort to repair the Church's standing following reports of widespread clergy abuse, the Pope is scheduled to meet seven survivors at a shrine in Lourdes. The visit concludes in Metz, where he and President Emmanuel Macron will pay tribute to Robert Schuman, a founding father of the European Union.