Pope Leo XIV has warned that the rapid rise of artificial intelligence could fuel “conflict, fear and violence,” linking the risks of AI-generated content to growing concerns over misinformation.
Douala: Pope Leo XIV has issued a strong warning about the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, saying the technology could deepen global instability by spreading misinformation, fear and violence.
His remarks come amid growing debate over the misuse of AI-generated content in politics and public life.
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Speaking during his visit to Cameroon, the Pope addressed students and educators at the Catholic University of Central Africa in Yaounde, where he cautioned that AI systems risk replacing reality with artificial simulations. He said this shift could weaken society’s relationship with truth and increase polarisation.
The comments come shortly after controversy involving US President Donald Trump, who faced backlash over a deleted AI-generated image that appeared to depict him as a Christ-like figure. The incident sparked criticism from religious groups and renewed global discussion on ethical limits in AI-generated political content.
Pope Leo warned that the dangers of AI go beyond technical errors, stressing that manipulated digital content could distort public perception and accelerate conflict. He said the spread of synthetic media could create confusion and erode trust in information, particularly when used irresponsibly in political communication.
During the same visit, the Pope also criticised environmental damage linked to the extraction of rare earth materials used in advanced technologies, calling for greater protection of vulnerable communities and an end to exploitation linked to global supply chains.
His remarks were delivered in Cameroon, where he held a large public Mass attended by more than 120,000 people in Douala. The visit is part of his broader Africa tour, which includes stops in Angola and Equatorial Guinea.
The intervention adds to the growing international debate over artificial intelligence regulation, misinformation risks and the need for stronger safeguards as AI tools become increasingly integrated into political and social communication worldwide.
(With AFP inputs)
Published: 17 Apr 2026, 11:51 pm IST
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