Pope Leo Urges Protection for Migrant Children

Pope Leo XIV called for greater attention to the suffering of migrant children in his message for the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees. He said children were among the most vulnerable migrants, particularly when they lacked adults able to protect and support them.

The message, titled “Even Just One of These Children”, was published by the Vatican on 14 August. The initiative is organized by the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development.

Pope Leo warned of the dangers children face along migration routes, including death, human trafficking, exploitation, sexual violence, forced marriage and recruitment into armed conflicts. He also stressed the important role of families, educators, volunteers and aid workers in supporting migrant children.

The pope called on public and private institutions to put the best interests of children first and prioritize the protection and dignity of every child and adolescent.

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