Pope Leo XIV Releases Message for World Day of Migrants and Refugees

Pope Leo XIV released a special message for the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees celebrated by the Church, emphasizing the great tragedies experienced by migrating and displaced children and their need for protection.

Theme of the Message and the Situation of Children

Pope Leo XIV's message focuses on the severe suffering and deep vulnerability experienced by migrant children caught in the midst of war, poverty, violence, and environmental disasters.

It was stated that children face risks such as losing family members, traumatic conditions, human trafficking, exploitation, and recruitment into armed conflict.

Solidarity and the Church's Approach

In the message, the solidarity shown by individuals, families, and communities welcoming migrants and children was met with appreciation.

Stating that every child possesses infinite dignity, it was recalled in line with Gospel teachings that not even a single child should be overlooked.

International and Institutional Calls

Calls were made to eliminate the root causes of migration in countries of origin and to provide necessary protection in transit and destination countries.

Civil institutions and religious structures were urged to take priority steps regarding the legal protection of children and family reunification.