On September 25, 2026, Pope Leo XIV embarked on the first papal visit to France in 18 years. The extensive itinerary addresses key contemporary challenges, with the development of artificial intelligence, youth engagement, and the reinforcement of peace in Europe amid geopolitical instability taking center stage.
Following an official welcoming ceremony in Paris, the head of the Vatican held formal talks at the Élysée Palace with French President Emmanuel Macron. The schedule also includes meetings with French government officials, civil society representatives, and the accredited diplomatic corps, highlighting the high international profile of the visit.
Speech at UNESCO and Warnings Over AI Threats
One of the most crucial highlights of the program was a visit to the headquarters of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). There, Pope Leo XIV delivered a keynote address focusing on the ethical dilemmas posed by the unchecked spread of artificial intelligence. Permanent Observer of the Holy See to UNESCO, Bishop Roberto Campisi, noted that human dignity, peace, education, and technological responsibility would feature prominently in the papal message.
This approach fully aligns with the pontiff's previous warnings regarding the necessity to develop AI in a way that safeguards humanity and limits the risk of exacerbating societal divisions and inequality through technology.
Contradictory Data
Coverage of the visit across various international media outlets revealed certain discrepancies regarding the exact official nature of the trip and scheduling details. While some Western and Asian agencies characterize the visit strictly as a state visit, Vatican sources emphasize its pastoral and humanitarian character. Nevertheless, all analysts agree on the historical significance of the journey, marking the first papal visit to France in nearly two decades.
Youth Events and Return to Notre-Dame
Beyond the official political agenda, a significant portion of the visit is dedicated to spiritual life. On the evening of September 25, Pope Leo XIV will lead a prayer service attended by approximately 80,000 young people at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis. Additionally, the pontiff will become the first pope to visit the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Paris following its extensive restoration after the devastating 2019 fire.
Final Stage in Metz and European Peace
The trip will conclude on September 28 in the northeastern French city of Metz. As part of the final leg, Pope Leo XIV will participate in an interreligious meeting and an event themed around the European roots of peace and unity against the backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and broader regional security crises.
