Pope Leo XIV calls for ban on lethal autonomous weapons

Pope Leo XIV has called for artificial intelligence systems to be “disarmed.” Speaking on Friday, the pope said people must be able to control and modify this technology and refrain from using it when necessary. He urged UN member states to take concrete steps toward banning lethal autonomous weapons at a meeting to be held in Geneva next month.

Pope Leo XIV emphasized that machines are merely tools, not human beings. He said granting AI systems rights or legal personhood could be dangerous. Decisions involving human life, freedom and the use of force must remain under the direct control of informed and responsible people.

This appeal continues the position set out in Pope Leo XIV’s first major document, issued in May. Protecting humanity in the age of artificial intelligence was one of the document’s main themes. The pope had previously explained that he chose the name Leo XIII to confront the challenges created by rapid technological development. Leo XIII led the church during the Industrial Revolution.

In 2024, Pope Francis also called for autonomous weapons to be banned. He said no machine should make the decision to kill a human being. Pope Leo XIV also urged international institutions to protect the common good. He called for shared rules governing the development and use of artificial intelligence, independent oversight and a clear allocation of responsibility. These rules should make it easier to review decisions, challenge them when necessary and find appropriate remedies for those harmed.