Pope Leo XIV begins historic visit to Canary Islands, decries migrant indifference

Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Gran Canaria, Spain, for a significant visit that immediately focused on the plight of migrants. Speaking at the port of Arguineguín, a key arrival point for many migrants in the Canary Islands, the pontiff condemned the "indifference" towards those undertaking perilous journeys to Europe.

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

"Monsters lurk in these seas today: 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," Pope Leo XIV stated. He emphasized that "one cannot speak of dignity and allow the seas to become cemeteries."

The Pope's visit includes listening to migrant testimonies, laying a floral offering, and delivering remarks during an event titled "Encounter with Realities of Migrant Reception." This initiative aims to shed light on the migration crisis and provide encouragement to the local church and community.

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

José Antonio Rodríguez Verona, regional head of the Red Cross responsible for initial migrant care, shared the emotional toll of assisting arrivals. He acknowledged both the joys of successful interventions and the profound sadness when individuals die during the crossing. Last year, nearly 1,200 migrants died or disappeared on the route to the Canary Islands, according to the International Organization for Migration.

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And sometimes we have also been defeated, because people who arrive at the dock die or have arrived dead on land.