Pope Francis has called on European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, to open their ports to migrants fleeing hardship and poverty.
During his visit to Marseille, the Pope emphasized that Europe is not facing a migration "emergency," but rather a long-term reality that must be dealt with in a humane manner. He urged governments to provide legal pathways to citizenship for migrants and to view the Mediterranean Sea as a beacon of hope rather than a graveyard of desperation.
The Pope's visit comes at a time when Italy's far-right government is threatening to organize a naval blockade of Tunisia and increase repatriations in response to a new wave of migrants. The French government has also strengthened patrols on its southern border to prevent migrants from crossing over from Italy.
In his address to Macron and regional bishops, Pope Francis highlighted the disparity between the affluence and waste on one side of the Mediterranean and the poverty and instability on the other. He called for justice and charity in responding to the plight of migrants, emphasizing the need for legal and regular entrances for those seeking a better life.
Macron's centrist government has taken a tougher stance on migration and security issues, facing criticism from conservatives and the far-right. As elections for the European Union's parliament approach, Macron is advocating for stronger external borders and more efficient deportation processes for those denied entry.
While acknowledging the recent headlines about mass migration to Europe, with thousands of migrants arriving on the Italian island of Lampedusa, the Pope cautioned against using alarmist language and fueling fears. He stressed that those risking their lives at sea are not invaders but individuals in search of welcome and a better life. The phenomenon of migration, he argued, is a long-term reality that requires wise foresight and a European response capable of addressing the objective difficulties involved.
In addition to Macron, the Pope's audience included European Commission Vice President Margartis Schins, European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde, and French Interior Minister Grald Darmanin. After the bishops' meeting, Macron and Francis held a private meeting, and the French president and first lady were expected to attend the Pope's final Mass in Marseille.
Migration has been a priority for Pope Francis throughout his pontificate. He has visited Lampedusa to honor migrants who died attempting to cross the sea, celebrated Mass on the U.S.-Mexico border, and met with Rohingya refugees in Myanmar. His commitment to the plight of migrants was further demonstrated when he brought 12 Syrian Muslims back to Rome on his plane after visiting a refugee camp in Lesbos, Greece.
While no migrants spoke at the formal events during the Pope's visit to Marseille, many were closely following his words and actions. Some migrants living in the city expressed hope that the Pope's call for charity and paths to citizenship would resonate with European politicians. They viewed his visit as an opportunity for the Pope to be their spokesperson and advocate for more compassionate migration policies.
Francois Thomas, head of the maritime rescue organization SOS Mediterranee, expressed hope that Pope Francis' words would shake the conscience of European leaders. He emphasized that leaving people to drown in the Mediterranean is not acceptable.
In addition to addressing migration, Pope Francis reiterated his opposition to euthanasia, which he sees as a symptom of a "throwaway culture." He criticized supporters of assisted suicide for providing false pretenses of a dignified death, describing it as more "salty" than the waters of the sea.
The issue of euthanasia is currently being debated in France, where Macron is expected to unveil a bill legalizing end-of-life options in the coming weeks. The sensitive topic was delayed until after the Pope's visit to avoid interference.
Overall, Pope Francis' visit to Marseille highlighted the need for a compassionate and just response to migration. He called on European leaders to open their doors to those in need, provide legal pathways to citizenship, and view the Mediterranean as a symbol of hope rather than despair.
The Pope's words resonated with migrants and advocates, who hope that his message will lead to more compassionate migration policies in Europe.
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