Pope Leo XIV Arrives in Canary Islands, Sends Strong Message to Europe Defending Migrants

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Spain's Gran Canaria, a symbolic location for the migrant crisis, to deliver a strong message against indifference to those attempting the perilous journey to Europe. During an emotional tribute at the port of Arguineguín, the pontiff cast flowers into the Atlantic Ocean, commemorating the thousands who have died trying to reach the Canary Islands.

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Today there are monsters lurking in these seas: mafias trafficking in desperation, traffickers enslaving women and children, and the indifference of many who allow the poor to be swallowed by exploitation or oblivion.

"Today there are monsters lurking in these seas: mafias trafficking in desperation, traffickers enslaving women and children, and the indifference of many who allow the poor to be swallowed by exploitation or oblivion," the 70-year-old Pope stated. He directly addressed Europe, asserting, "It cannot proclaim human dignity and become accustomed to the Mediterranean and the Atlantic being cemeteries without tombstones."

The Pope called for a "moment of conscience" for nations of origin, urging them to foster peace, justice, and development. He also called on transit nations to protect the vulnerable from criminal networks. This visit fulfills a wish of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who was unable to make the journey.

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It cannot proclaim human dignity and become accustomed to the Mediterranean and the Atlantic being cemeteries without tombstones.

In 2024, a record number of over 46,000 people reached the Canary Islands in precarious vessels. Last year, nearly 1,200 migrants died or disappeared on the route, according to the International Organization for Migration. The Pope's visit comes at a time when many countries are tightening their immigration policies, with Spain being a notable exception.

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moment of conscience