Vatican City: At the conclusion of his Wednesday General Audience, Pope Leo XIV turned his attention to the plight of people living amid the world’s conflicts, issuing a heartfelt call for prayers and solidarity. The Pope particularly focused on Myanmar, a nation grappling with years of civil unrest and profound humanitarian suffering.
“I invite you to join me in prayer for all who are tried by the violence of war in different parts of the world,” Pope Leo said, appealing to the faithful to remember those enduring the devastation of armed conflict. He stressed the importance of not overlooking the situation in Myanmar, urging the international community to “not forget the Burmese people and to provide the necessary humanitarian assistance.”
The Pope’s appeal came against the backdrop of one of the most severe crises in the region. Nearly five years have passed since Myanmar’s military staged a coup, toppling the democratically elected government. What began as nationwide protests against the takeover in 2021 escalated into violent clashes between pro-democracy forces, ethnic armed groups, and the military junta.
Entire villages have been destroyed by airstrikes and armed confrontations, while millions of citizens face acute shortages of food, medicine, and safe shelter. According to the United Nations, over half of Myanmar’s population now requires humanitarian aid to survive.
While the current crisis intensified after the 2021 coup, Pope Leo reminded the faithful that Myanmar’s challenges have deeper roots. The Rohingya crisis, which erupted in 2017, saw widespread atrocities perpetrated against the Muslim minority. The military’s campaign involved killings, sexual violence, torture, and the destruction of entire villages. A UN Fact-Finding Mission described these actions as conducted with “genocidal intent,” forcing over 700,000 Rohingya to flee to neighboring Bangladesh. Those who remain in Rakhine State live under severe restrictions, denied citizenship, and subjected to systemic marginalization.
The same military forces responsible for the 2017 atrocities later seized political power in 2021. Their subsequent actions sparked an unprecedented wave of nationwide resistance, met with the same brutality previously directed against the Rohingya. Today, people across Myanmar regardless of ethnicity or faith continue to endure oppression, violence, and widespread deprivation.
Through his prayers, Pope Leo XIV sought to draw international attention to the ongoing suffering. He urged governments, organizations, and individuals to provide aid, protect civilians, and work toward peace and justice. “Let us not forget those who live under the shadow of conflict and oppression,” the Pope said, emphasizing that spiritual and practical support remain crucial for communities devastated by war.
The Holy Father’s message serves as a reminder that amid global turmoil, the Church continues to advocate for compassion, humanitarian assistance, and the dignity of all people affected by violence and political instability.