UMVA has learned that a powerful warning has been issued by Pope Leo XIV about the devastating human cost of mass migration, condemning those who profit from the suffering of migrants attempting to reach Europe.
The Pope's stark warning came during a visit to the Canary Islands, a major entry point for African migrants, where he lamented the thousands who have lost their lives attempting the treacherous crossing. "Monsters lurk in these seas," he said, highlighting the role of traffickers, criminal networks, and others who exploit the desperation of migrants.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the Pope's remarks were made during a visit with migrants who survived the often-fatal voyage from Africa, and he called for stronger efforts to combat human trafficking and support victims. He urged governments to address the root causes of migration, saying that the Christian view of human dignity demands safe pathways, rescue, and assistance for those in need.
The Pope's comments mark a significant shift in tone on the issue of immigration, and he emphasized that people should not be forced to leave their homelands in the first place. "While there is a right to seek refuge when life is threatened, there is also the right not to have to migrate," he said, stressing that governments must work to create conditions that allow people to live with dignity in their own countries.
UMVA has gathered that the Pope's message is not only a call to action for governments, but also a reminder to migrants themselves of the importance of integrating into their host communities. In a separate speech, he encouraged migrants to learn the language, respect the laws, and participate in the communal life of their new homes, offering their unique gifts and perspectives to enrich the community.
The Pope's words are a powerful reminder of the human cost of migration and the need for a compassionate and comprehensive response. As he said, "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead" – a stark warning that highlights the urgency of the issue and the need for collective action to protect the dignity and safety of all people on the move.
