Pope Leo XIV has expressed concerns regarding the emotional impacts of overly affectionate AI chatbots, calling for regulatory measures to prevent humans from developing deep emotional connections with these digital companions. In a statement released ahead of the Catholic Church’s annual World Day of Social Communications, scheduled for May 17, 2026, the pontiff emphasized the need for ethical guidelines as artificial intelligence continues to evolve.
In his message, Pope Leo highlighted the growing challenge of distinguishing between human interactions and those with AI. “As we scroll through our information feeds, it becomes increasingly difficult to understand whether we are interacting with other human beings, bots, or virtual influencers,” he noted. He raised a critical alarm about chatbots designed to be excessively affectionate, suggesting they may inadvertently manipulate emotional states and intrude upon individuals’ personal spheres.
Pope Leo XIV’s engagement with technology sets him apart from previous popes. His active presence on social media platforms, including an account on X, and his choice to wear a smartwatch, reflect a modern approach to the papacy. After his election, he identified artificial intelligence as a key focus for his leadership, advocating for a structured ethical framework to guide its development.
The pontiff’s concerns are underscored by a tragic event involving Megan Garcia, whose son, Sewell Setzer, died by suicide after interactions with an AI chatbot. This incident has lent urgency to his calls for national governments and international organizations to implement protective regulations. “Appropriate regulation can protect people from an emotional attachment to chatbots and contain the spread of false, manipulative or misleading content,” he stated.
Furthermore, Pope Leo stressed the importance of distinguishing between AI-generated content and that created by humans, particularly journalists. He asserted that “authorship and sovereign ownership of the work of journalists and other content creators must be protected.” The pope reiterated that information is a public good and urged media companies not to compromise their professional integrity for fleeting engagement driven by algorithms.
The pope also expressed concern over the concentration of power among a limited number of companies advancing AI technology. He specifically referenced the founders recognized as Person of the Year 2025 by Time magazine, suggesting that their influence poses significant risks. “It raises concerns that a small group of people has control of algorithmic and AI systems that can subtly shape behavior and even rewrite human history,” he remarked.
As the Church prepares for the upcoming World Day of Social Communications, the focus will be on protecting human dignity during this era of rapid technological advancement. Pope Leo XIV’s message serves as a reminder of the moral responsibilities that accompany technological innovation, urging a balanced approach that safeguards emotional well-being and preserves authentic human interactions.
