Pope Leo XIV warns Spain's parliament against rearmament and AI weapons, calls for abuse reparations

A historic address in Madrid

Pope Leo XIV made history on Monday by becoming the first pontiff to address the Spanish Parliament, the Cortes Generales. The 70-year-old American pope, on the third day of a week-long visit to Spain, received a prolonged standing ovation from deputies, government members, and representatives across the political spectrum. Spanish media reported the applause lasted seven minutes, with chants of "Viva el Papa" and "Bravo" echoing through the chamber as he departed.

Condemnation of rearmament and AI weapons

The pope issued a stark warning against what he called a "worrying" trend of militarization, even within Europe. He stated that the world is in a "deep spiritual and cultural crisis" manifesting in violence, polarization, and mutual distrust.

It is worrying that in various parts of the world, including Europe, rearmament is once again presenting itself as an almost inevitable response to the instability of the international situation.

He insisted that weapons can "never create a genuine and lasting peace" and that true security arises only through justice, "patient dialogue," and respect for international law. The pope specifically condemned the use of artificial intelligence in weapons systems, declaring that decisions over life and death must never be delegated to automated systems. Citing his recent encyclical "Magnifica humanitas," he argued that technological development is never neutral, taking on "the features of those who conceive, finance, regulate, and use it."

Demands for justice on clergy abuse

Earlier in the day, Pope Leo addressed Spain's Catholic bishops and delivered his strongest comments yet on the sexual abuse scandals that have damaged the Church's credibility. He denounced the "scourge" of abuse and called for a "culture of care."

Faced with this scourge, the ecclesial community is called to respond with listening, truth, justice, reparation and an ever more determined commitment to prevention and a culture of care.

He insisted every victim should find "sincere listening, welcome, protection and real paths to healing." Spanish media reported that the pope was expected to meet privately with abuse survivors at the Vatican embassy in Madrid later that day. The Vatican confirmed a meeting would take place but provided no further details. A 2023 report by Spain's national ombudsman estimated that around 200,000 minors have suffered abuse by clergy in the country since 1940. In March, Spain's government and the Catholic Church signed an agreement to compensate victims.

Migration and the call for human dignity

The pope addressed the "tragic migration crisis," urging lawmakers to create "safe and legal pathways" for refugees and to tackle the root causes of displacement. He framed the issue not as a demographic or economic question but as a moral and legal challenge for the international community.

The tragic drama of migration challenges the conscience of nations and the ethical foundation of the international order today.

He called for a policy that places the human person at the center and warned that discrimination based on origin, religion, language, or social status violates the principle of equal dignity for all. To conclude his Spanish visit, the pope plans to meet with migrants in the Canary Islands.

A plea against polarization

Pope Leo also turned his attention to the health of democratic societies, warning against growing social polarization. He called for greater respect in political discourse, insisting that differences must not lead to the devaluation of political opponents but should be negotiated democratically. Commentators on Spanish broadcaster RTVE noted that the pope appeared to be continuing the course set by his predecessor, Francis, finding clear words for the most pressing problems of the present era.