Embattled German chancellor chooses papal pageturner for his beach read
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is reading a papal encyclical on artificial intelligence during his summer break. The text advocates for strict ethical constraints on technology, reflecting a broader debate on AI's role in Europe's economy.
Why it matters
The reading choice of a major political leader provides insight into the ideological approach European governments may take toward regulating emerging AI technologies.
Friedrich Merz has faced a string of setbacks since becoming Germany’s chancellor 14 months ago. Friedrich Merz has faced a string of setbacks since becoming Germany’s chancellor 14 months ago. Germany Embattled German chancellor chooses papal pageturner for his beach read With his popularity at historic lows, Friedrich Merz seeks spiritual guidance from Pope Leo’s encyclical on AI
Prefer the Guardian on Google Summer is normally thought of as the time for pacy potboilers and brain-soothing pageturners – airport reads that wind up sandy and sunscreen-stained. Not so for Friedrich Merz ’s holiday reading list.
Germany ’s embattled chancellor, who has faced one rough patch after another since taking office 14 months ago, seems to be seeking spiritual guidance this year while putting his feet up.
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