Marseille, France (AP) — In a powerful statement, Pope Francis urged French President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders to open their ports to migrants seeking safety and refuge. The pope emphasized that the migration issue is a long-term reality that should be dealt with compassionately, rather than being labeled an “emergency.” During a gathering of regional bishops in Marseille, Francis criticized European countries that have used fear tactics to justify closing their doors to migrants, calling instead for legal pathways to citizenship. He highlighted the Mediterranean Sea, which many migrants cross to reach Europe, as a symbol of both affluence and poverty, and urged leaders to transform it into a beacon of hope rather than a graveyard of desperation.
The pope’s visit to Marseille, which attracted around 150,000 well-wishers, comes at a time when Italy’s far-right-led government is considering authorizing a naval blockade of Tunisia and increasing repatriation efforts in response to a new wave of migrants. France has also tightened its border patrols to prevent migrants from crossing over from Italy. After the bishops’ meeting, Francis and Macron held a private discussion in which they expressed their determination to find humane solutions to the migration crisis. France considers itself a host country to migrants, particularly asylum seekers, and is committed to supporting European solidarity policies, combating human trafficking, and providing financial assistance.
Macron’s government has taken a tougher stance on migration and security issues due to pressure from French conservatives and the far right. With upcoming European Union parliamentary elections, Macron is advocating for stronger external borders and improved deportation processes for those denied entry. During his visit, Francis listened to stories from an Italian volunteer working in Greece and a bishop who fled communist rule in Albania, both of whom emphasized the importance of welcoming and assisting migrants. The pope called on society to reject indifference and create legal and regulated pathways for migrants, rather than perpetuating the exploitation of human beings.
Although mass migration to Europe continues to make headlines, Francis argued against labeling it an “emergency” and emphasized that it is an ongoing reality. He criticized the use of fear-mongering and alarmist propaganda, highlighting the fact that those risking their lives at sea are not invaders, but individuals seeking safety and a better life. The pope’s final Mass in Marseille was attended by around 50,000 people, with an additional 100,000 lining the streets to catch a glimpse of his popemobile.
Pope Francis has consistently made the plight of migrants a priority throughout his tenure. He has visited Lampedusa, a small Italian island, to honor migrants who died while attempting to cross the sea, celebrated Mass on the U.S.-Mexico border, and met with Rohingya refugees in Myanmar. His commitment to migrants was further demonstrated when he brought 12 Syrian Muslims back to the Vatican on his plane after visiting a refugee camp in Greece. Migrants and advocates in Marseille expressed hope that the pope’s call for charity and pathways to citizenship would resonate with European leaders and lead to more compassionate policies. They stressed that the current European policy on migration is repressive and in need of change.
In addition to discussing migration, Francis reiterated his opposition to euthanasia as a form of “throwaway culture.” He criticized supporters of assisted suicide and referred to euthanasia as a “social evil.” France is currently considering legalizing end-of-life options, including assisted suicide and euthanasia, and Macron is expected to introduce a bill on the matter. The French presidency confirmed that the issue was discussed during the pope’s meeting with Macron but did not provide further details.
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