Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has called on the International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) to strengthen its efforts to protect migrants and refugees, with particular attention to children forced to leave their homes because of conflict, violence and natural disasters.
In a video message released on November 10, the Pope encouraged the organisation to continue its work of welcoming, protecting, promoting and integrating migrants, refugees and people returning to their countries.
He also urged the commission to find new ways to support displaced children, whose numbers continue to rise around the world.
Pope Leo stressed that addressing the situation requires cooperation with countries of origin to tackle the reasons that force children to flee. He also called for protection and support for them in countries they pass through and those where they seek safety.
The message was delivered to the ICMC Council during its Plenary Meeting in Rome, taking place from November 10 to 12. The meeting brings together representatives of national Bishops' Conferences and local Churches from different parts of the world to discuss migration and the challenges facing the Church in responding to growing humanitarian needs.
The Pope acknowledged that wars, violence, injustice, natural disasters and increasing social and economic inequalities are forcing millions of people to leave their homes and countries.
He also pointed to the decline in funding for international protection and humanitarian assistance, which has made the situation more difficult for countries of origin, transit and destination.
Against this background, he highlighted the importance of understanding, dialogue and solidarity in responding to the needs of displaced people. He encouraged the ICMC to work alongside other faith based organisations and civil society groups to defend the dignity of migrants and refugees.
Referring to his Apostolic Exhortation Dilexi Te, Pope Leo recalled that Christ is present in the suffering of migrants who are rejected or denied welcome.
The ICMC is marking its 75th anniversary this year. Founded in 1951 by Pope Pius XII, Cardinal Montini, who later became Pope Paul VI, and American layman James Norris, the organisation works to strengthen the Church's response to migration and displacement.