Pope Leo XIV addresses human dignity at UNESCO

During a visit to UNESCO, Pope Leo XIV addressed the fundamental question of what it means to be human, focusing on human dignity, the challenges of technology and artificial intelligence, and the pursuit of peace.

The Pope emphasized that being human begins with being a child, describing humanity as a gift, a promise, and a responsibility. He argued that recognizing this origin is essential to prevent life from being viewed merely as a product subject to exploitation. He also noted that human dignity remains intact regardless of illness, suffering, or physical capability.

In the context of education, Leo XIV stated that no education is complete without addressing the question of meaning, advocating for a model that helps individuals to “be” more rather than simply to “have” more. He further discussed how freedom must be oriented toward truth and the good to avoid degenerating into violence or the pursuit of power.