Vatican to Establish a Dedicated Commission on Artificial Intelligence

Vatican Launches AI Commission

According to Главком: Pope Leo XIV has announced the formation of a special commission within the Vatican focused on artificial intelligence. This new body will be responsible for shaping and coordinating the Catholic Church’s stance on the development and deployment of AI technologies. The decision comes amid the rapid expansion of AI tools and their potential effects on individuals and society, driven by the Church’s concern for human dignity.

The announcement followed the signing of a new encyclical by Pope Leo XIV, which is set to be released in the coming weeks. Elected in May 2025, the pontiff has previously underscored the need to apply the Church’s social teachings to address challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Last June, he voiced worries about the negative consequences of increasing AI use, particularly stressing that society should be alarmed by risks to children and young people.

'I am certain that we are all concerned about children and young people, and about the potential effects of artificial intelligence on their intellectual and neurological development. Our youth need help, not hindrance, on their path to maturity and genuine responsibility.' Pope Leo XIV

Criticism from the U.S. President

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized the Pope, accusing him of endangering the faithful by taking a lenient stance on Iran’s nuclear program. Trump claims the pontiff does not oppose Tehran possessing nuclear weapons. The rift between Trump and Pope Leo XIV has deepened due to the Vatican’s position on U.S. and Israeli military actions in Iran. The pontiff has also condemned the American leader’s rhetoric, calling statements about wiping out Iranian civilization contrary to international norms.

The creation of the Vatican’s AI commission highlights the Catholic Church’s intent to shape ethical and social dimensions of emerging technologies worldwide. It also reflects the growing relevance of artificial intelligence in modern society, with the Church seeking an active role in debates over the moral implications of these tools. As technology’s influence expands, the Church’s involvement in setting ethical standards becomes increasingly significant.