Pope Francis calls for respect for international law and migrant dignity in Spanish parliament

Pope Francis delivered a powerful address to the Spanish parliament, urging a renewed commitment to international law and the inherent dignity of all individuals, particularly migrants. In his first speech to Spanish lawmakers, the pontiff called for "moral renewal" within legislative bodies and public life to ensure that the dignity of every person, including the most vulnerable, is respected.

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The moral greatness of a nation is reflected, above all, in its ability to accompany, protect, and love those lives that are most fragile.

"The moral greatness of a nation is reflected, above all, in its ability to accompany, protect, and love those lives that are most fragile," Pope Francis stated. His address highlighted the significance of the Catholic Church's engagement with Spain's political sphere, noting that such invitations to speak before foreign parliaments are rare and signify a growing acceptance.

Speaking amidst renewed tensions between Israel and Iran, the Pope reiterated his plea for dialogue. "Peace requires diplomatic courage, ethical responsibility, and a vision of the future based on respect for the identity of each people and the obligation of states to resolve their disputes through peaceful means offered by international law," he said. He also voiced concern over increasing European military budgets in the face of perceived threats from Russia and potential reductions in U.S. support.

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Peace requires diplomatic courage, ethical responsibility, and a vision of the future based on respect for the identity of each people and the obligation of states to resolve their disputes through peaceful means offered by international law.

Pope Francis further emphasized the need for "rigorous ethical oversight" of artificial intelligence in weaponry, ensuring that life-and-death decisions remain within human moral responsibility. He invoked the 16th-century School of Salamanca, a Spanish intellectual tradition that influenced concepts of international law and human rights, calling for strengthened international efforts to prevent migrant smuggling and create conditions for people to remain in their homes.

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Therefore, it is a cause for concern that in different parts of the world, including Europe, rearmament is again presented as an almost inevitable response to the fragility of the international situation.