Speaking at the Vatican during the international conference “The Dignity of Children and Adolescents in the Age of Artificial Intelligence”, Pope Leo XIV called for urgent action to safeguard minors from the dangers of AI technologies. Among the attendees was Megan Garcia, mother of 14-year-old American Sewell Setzer III, who died by suicide after months of compulsive interaction with a chatbot.
“The young are particularly vulnerable to manipulation through AI algorithms that shape their choices and preferences,” the Pope warned, urging parents and educators to stay vigilant and help children navigate the digital world responsibly. He called on governments and international organizations to update data protection laws and establish ethical standards for AI development and use.
Beyond regulation, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the role of education: “We need a daily, consistent effort by well-prepared adults supported by strong educational networks.” He concluded by reaffirming that human dignity and personal connection must remain at the center of technological progress: “Only through an ethical and responsible approach can we make artificial intelligence an ally in children’s growth—rather than a threat.”