Pope Francis Criticizes Europe's Migration Policy, Calls Seas 'Cemeteries'

Pope Francis delivered a historic address on migration in the Canary Islands, sharply criticizing Europe's response to the humanitarian crisis. Speaking in Gran Canaria, a key arrival point for African migrants, he decried the perilous sea journeys, stating, "one cannot speak of dignity and allow the seas to become cemeteries." He referenced the infamous Arguineguín dock, which in 2020 became a symbol of overcrowding and neglect, holding over 2,300 migrants. The Pope urged the international community to confront this "drama" as an "examination of conscience."

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one cannot speak of dignity and allow the seas to become cemeteries.

Francis appealed directly to those in power, questioning the world humanity has built when so many risk death for a chance at life. He condemned the paradox of proclaiming human dignity while allowing the Mediterranean and Atlantic to become unmarked graves. His remarks came just before the implementation of the European Pact on Migration and Asylum, which includes border retention and financial opt-outs for member states, a system he implicitly criticized.

The Pontiff also called on countries of origin to foster peace and development, and transit nations to protect vulnerable individuals from criminal networks. He stressed the need for "effective and persistent cooperation" globally. The Pope underscored that human dignity requires legal and safe routes, rescue, assistance, and integration policies. He also affirmed the right to remain in one's homeland, free from hunger, war, corruption, and environmental degradation.

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the drama migratorio “debe convertirse en examen de conciencia”.

Francis asserted that the Church cannot remain silent in the face of abandonment. He challenged the international community, stating, "It is not enough to manage arrivals, distribute figures, reinforce borders or lament deaths when they have already occurred." The Pope's strong words aimed to galvanize action and foster a more humane approach to migration.

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Europe “no puede proclamar la dignidad humana y acostumbrarse a que el Mediterráneo y el Atlántico sean cementerios sin lápidas”.