Vatican City, May 16, 2026: Pope Leo XIV has approved the creation of an Interdicasterial Commission on Artificial Intelligence, establishing a new Vatican body to address the growing impact of AI on humanity, human dignity and social development.
The decision was confirmed in a rescript dated 12 May and released on 16 May, signed by Cardinal Michael Czerny, Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development.
The Vatican said the move responds to the rapid development and increasing use of artificial intelligence, along with its potential impact on individuals and society. The initiative also reflects the Church’s concern for protecting human dignity and promoting integral human development.
Pope Leo approved the commission following an audience with Cardinal Czerny on 3 May. The Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development will coordinate the commission’s work during its first year.
The commission will bring together representatives from seven Vatican institutions: the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, the Dicastery for Culture and Education, the Dicastery for Communication, the Pontifical Academy for Life, the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, and the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences.
According to the Vatican, the coordinating institution will facilitate cooperation and information-sharing among members on AI-related activities and policies within the Holy See while promoting dialogue and participation.
The creation of the body continues the Vatican’s growing focus on artificial intelligence and its social implications. Earlier this year, Vatican offices published Antiqua et Nova, a document examining the relationship between artificial intelligence and human intelligence.
Pope Leo XIV has repeatedly highlighted concerns surrounding technological developments during his pontificate. Shortly after his election, he said the Church’s social teaching must respond to what he described as a new industrial revolution driven by advances in artificial intelligence, warning that such developments present fresh challenges for human dignity, justice and labour.
Courtesy: Vatican News
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