Pope Leo XIV has cautioned that artificial intelligence could worsen global tensions if not properly regulated, warning that the technology may deepen division, fear, and violence across societies.
He made the remarks during a visit to the Catholic University of Central Africa in Yaoundé, Cameroon, where he spoke about the growing influence of digital systems on human life. According to him, the rapid spread of AI tools risks replacing real-world experiences with artificial simulations, which could distort people’s understanding of truth.
The Pope said the issue goes beyond technology, stressing that it affects how people relate to reality itself. He warned that if unchecked, AI could contribute to misinformation and increase social and political polarisation around the world.
He also raised concerns about the environmental impact of the digital industry, pointing to the extraction of rare minerals needed to power data centres and other tech infrastructure. He noted that African countries often carry the environmental and social burden of mining activities, despite limited benefits.
Focusing on the Democratic Republic of Congo, he highlighted how competition for valuable resources such as cobalt, lithium, and coltan has contributed to long-running conflict in the region. The country remains one of the world’s largest producers of cobalt, a key material used in energy and technology systems.
Pope Leo further criticised corruption in the mining sector, saying foreign companies and powers often benefit more from Africa’s natural wealth than local communities. He called for stronger accountability and fairer management of resources.
While expressing concern over the risks linked to technology and resource exploitation, he encouraged young Africans not to reject innovation but to use it responsibly and with ethical guidance.
