Pope Leo XIV arrives in France for a four-day visit, highlighting AI regulation, apologies for clergy abuse, and European unity. The visit includes meetings with survivors, speeches on AI, and a focus on human dignity amid ongoing challenges.
The visit begins in Paris with a meeting with President Macron and an address at UNESCO. Leo is expected to meet seven abuse survivors in Lourdes and deliver a speech on AI's risks and the need for global oversight. The trip also includes a service at Notre-Dame Cathedral and a youth vigil in Paris.
The visit comes as the Catholic Church seeks to restore credibility after a 2021 report revealed abuse of 330,000 minors by clergy. Leo's message on AI and human dignity will be central, with the Vatican emphasizing the need for global rules on the technology. The trip also includes a speech on Europe's role in peace and unity.
The visit includes a meeting in Metz with leaders from 27 EU countries, though attendance is uncertain. The Vatican has not provided details on the meeting with abuse survivors, but survivors continue to push for accountability despite compensation and safeguarding measures.