Pope Leo XIV affirmed to the Vatican labor associations the irreplaceable nature of human work in the age of artificial intelligence (AI).
The pontiff held a private audience on Monday with a delegation of the Vatican Lay Employees Association and the Women in the Vatican Association. The groups are the only two labor associations in Vatican City State, with the Vatican Lay Employees Association having been founded in 1979 and the Women in the Vatican Association in 2016.
'Keep attention on human work, not AI developments'
In his remarks, Leo emphasized the dignity of human work in an age when AI developments can change how work is valued and performed.
"In the face of today's challenges in the world of work, especially those posed by developments in artificial intelligence, it is more important than ever to keep attention focused on the irreplaceable centrality of the human person and the inalienable dignity of work," Leo said.
Drawing from his encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, Leo explained that work is not merely a tool but a requirement for personal fulfillment.
"Work is not a simple tool," Leo said.
"It is a requirement inscribed in the human condition, an ordinary path toward maturity, development, and personal fulfillment," the pope added.
The pope invited his audience to foster dialogue and noted in particular women's contributions in this regard.
"The presence of women is a richness that must be increasingly recognized and valued," the pope said. "Their expertise, discernment, creativity, and practicality enhance the life of institutions and contribute to a broader perspective on reality and the problems encountered."
