Pope Leo XIV urges Europeans to welcome migrants
Pope Leo XIV concluded a visit to France by advocating for a more welcoming approach toward migrants and criticizing increased military spending. He also reaffirmed his opposition to abortion and assisted dying, emphasizing the sanctity of life.
Why it matters
The Pope's political and social commentary influences global Catholic discourse and impacts debates on European migration policy and ethics.
Pope Leo XIV called for a more welcoming attitude towards migrants in Europe as he concluded a four-day visit to France.
Speaking in Metz, once the home of Robert Schuman, one of the European Union’s founding fathers and a proponent of reconciliation after World War II, the Pope criticised calls by leaders to increase arms expenditure, saying it was contrary to the process of peace through dialogue. The head of the Catholic Church was accompanied to Metz by French President Emmanuel Macron, who is due to demit office early next year.
“We see many men and women fleeing war and persecution,” the Pope said, citing the case of the Canary Islands, which has seen an influx of migrants from Africa.
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