Pope Leo XIV addresses Pontifical Academy of Sciences

Pope Leo XIV addressed the members of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences during their plenary session on September 24, 2026. The gathering, organized by Chancellor Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson and President Joachim von Braun, focused on the theme of the future of science in a changing world.

The Pope noted that digitalization, artificial intelligence, and robotics are rapidly transforming the world. While he stated these tools offer hope for scientific breakthroughs in medicine, food systems, energy, and the understanding of the universe, he also identified specific risks. He warned that artificial intelligence could be used for discrimination, manipulation, and surveillance. Additionally, the Pope noted that autonomous weapons and sophisticated cyber capabilities could threaten international peace and security if they are deployed without human oversight and adequate safeguards.