Pope urges action to save migrants in north African deserts

Scene of severe drought May 2022

Source: Vatican News

Pope Francis has appealed to world leaders to aid migrants trapped in the deserts of North Africa while also recalling the extreme climatic events taking place around the globe.

After leading the Angelus with pilgrims in St Peter's Square on Sunday, Pope Francis spoke of the worsening tragic situation of migrants in north Africa. Thousands are suffering terribly because they have been abandoned in the desert for weeks.

"I appeal, in particular to the European and African Heads of State and Government, for urgent relief and assistance to these brothers and sisters," he said. "May the Mediterranean never again be a theatre of death and inhumanity. May the Lord enlighten the minds and hearts of all, inpsiring sentiments of fraternity, solidarity, and hospitality."

"May the Mediterranean never again be a theatre of death and inhumanity."

The Pope also expressed his closeness to people everywhere suffering from extreme climatic events, whether severe heat or unprecedented flooding.

He mentioned that many countries are experiencing extraordinary heat waves with devastating fires and in other places massive rains and flooding.

He mentioned in particular extreme floods affecting South Korea, and he expressed his closeness to those suffering and emergency workers assisting the victims and the displaced.

"I renew my appeal to the leaders of nations, that something more tangible be done to limit polluting emissions," he said. "It is an urgent challenge and cannot be postponed; it concerns everyone... Let us protect our common home!"

Pope Francis concluded by asking everyone to continue to pray for peace for suffering Ukraine, where the war has caused more death and destruction, especially overnight in Odessa.