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What does Pope Leo XIV say about Migration?

Quick answer
Drawing on his decades in Peru, Pope Leo XIV speaks of migrants and refugees as people to be welcomed and protected, and calls on wealthier nations to share responsibility. He connects migration to poverty, conflict and climate, and made it a central theme of his 2026 visit to Spain and its Canary Islands, a major arrival point for migration to Europe.

Key positions

  • Migrants and refugees have inherent dignity and must be protected, not criminalised.
  • Responsibility for reception should be shared internationally.
  • Root causes — poverty, violence, climate — must be addressed.
  • Integration and encounter benefit host societies.

Most important statements

  • Met migrants and aid organisations in the Canary Islands and stressed human dignity during the visit to Spain.

    June 11, 2026 · Canary Islands, Spain

Timeline of statements

  1. Migration focus during the visit to Spain

Key quotes

Verified quotes will be added as statements are archived.

Frequently asked questions

How does Pope Leo XIV's background shape his view on migration?

He spent much of his life in Peru and holds Peruvian citizenship, giving him first-hand experience of migration within Latin America, which he cites when speaking on the issue.

Sources

LeoPope links to primary and official texts wherever they exist. See our sources policy.

Related topics:PeacePovertyLatin America