Spain's King Felipe VI calls for a humane digital revolution

King Felipe VI addressed the Fundación Hermes, linking the digital transformation with the teachings of Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical “Magnifica humanitas.” He urged that technological development be matched by political, social, and ethical responses, emphasizing the protection of personal data as a cornerstone of democratic freedom. The monarch warned that digital footprints act as a “radiograph” of society’s hopes and fears and that misuse could shape decisions and distort reality. Felipe VI advocated for active digital rights protection, avoiding excessive regulation while building public trust so citizens can act as “authentic digital citizens.” He concluded by citing the Pope’s call that, in the era of artificial intelligence, there is an urgent duty to remain deeply human.

The King will travel to Tenerife to bid farewell to Pope Leo XIV, who is concluding a seven‑day apostolic visit to Spain. Felipe VI will attend only the airport ceremony and will not meet immigrant groups or aid organizations, leaving those engagements to other officials.