Pope Leo XIV on AI’s new ‘form of domination’: it risks becoming a tool of ‘economic colonialism’

Pope Leo XIV cautioned that AI could morph into "economic colonialism," exacerbating disparities between wealthy and less fortunate nations, according to his latest speech to the International Catholic Legislators Network (ICLN) on Friday. He emphasized the need for alertness, warning that innovation could be weaponized for ideological or financial dominance.

AI's rapid growth could leave impoverished countries reliant on wealthier ones for technology, and algorithms may "create a subtle form of domination" by determining who is visible and invisible in digital spaces, thus influencing public discourse without accountability. These trends represent a modern manifestation of the "ancient temptation to domination and mastery without service."

To counter this, Pope Leo advocated for "robust legal frameworks, independent oversight, informed users, and a political system that does not shirk its responsibility," ensuring no singular ideology or interest dictates the values embedded in AI systems. His call for responsible governance echoes his previous warnings, contrasting with the Trump administration's deregulatory stance on AI.

The pope further argued that AI is diminishing interpersonal connections, contributing to declining marriage and birth rates as people delay these milestones. He stressed that AI must not undermine the family, as it reduces individuals to data points and distorts desires through excessive exposure to digital content and exploitative economic models.

This message builds on the pope's earlier encyclical, reinforcing his stance on AI's impact on human dignity, labor, and family life. Political consultant Christopher Hale noted that while Pope Leo's religious authority adds weight to his criticism, his words resonate widely, bridging partisan divides and giving the AI debate mainstream legitimacy.