Pope Leo warns AI could become a new form of ‘economic colonialism’

Pope Leo also expressed concern that AI could erode families, which he called “the primary cell of society.” He asked lawmakers to promote policies that strengthen marriage and families, and that enable young people to look to the future with confidence. “Artificial intelligence must never be allowed to erode this primary cell of society,” he said, citing risks from reducing relationships to data, flooding young minds with harmful content, or making family life economically precarious.

The speech comes as tech companies push consumers to adopt AI tools across nearly every part of daily life. Critics have warned that the technology could upend the job market and displace workers, while optimists argue it will automate tasks and speed up productivity.

In May, a Unitarian Universalist employee was granted a faith-based accommodation to avoid using AI at her job, a sign that the technology's social impact is already reaching workplaces. The pope's remarks add a moral dimension to the growing regulatory debate, with some lawmakers potentially using his authority to push for stricter AI rules.