Pope Leo XIV addressed an international meeting on artificial intelligence organized jointly by the Pontifical Academy for Life and the Future of Life Institute.

He said artificial intelligence’s future will be shaped by human choices and emphasized that machines are tools rather than people. Decisions involving human life, freedom and the use of force, he said, must remain under human supervision.

“Decisions affecting human life, freedom and the use of force must always remain subject to effective, informed, and responsible human oversight,” Pope Leo XIV said.

The pope encouraged states meeting in Geneva in November to prohibit lethal autonomous weapons. He also called for AI to be directed toward the common good, supported by institutions, shared standards, independent oversight and accountability systems.

The meeting included participants from several countries. Its agenda was organized around five considerations: AI’s future is not predetermined; machines are not persons; some decisions cannot be delegated; intelligent technologies should serve the common good; and institutions are needed to apply ethical principles to AI development.

Pope Leo XIV closed by thanking the participants and encouraging dialogue and shared responsibility. He concluded, “I accompany you with my prayers, and to each of you I cordially impart my blessing.”