Pope Urges Smugglers to Repent During Canary Islands Visit

During a visit to the Canary Islands, Pope Leo XIV delivered a stark message to the human traffickers and smuggling networks that profit from migration to Europe. He called on them to stop exploiting the desperation of people fleeing war and poverty, to repent and make amends, warning that according to Catholic teaching they would otherwise be held accountable before God's judgment.

The pope also warned that the "tears and blood" of migrants "cry out to God" and criticized world leaders for failing to adequately protect people fleeing persecution and poverty.

The Canary Islands are one of the main entry points for migrants into Europe, and thousands of people die each year attempting to cross the Atlantic.

During his visit, Leo XIV also heard accounts from migrants, who spoke above all of their desire for dignity, respect and the chance to build a new life.

(reuters, mja)