New Delhi: Pope Francis has criticized the neglect of migrants risking their lives to cross the Mediterranean Sea into Europe. He declared it a serious wrongdoing to ignore migrant boats in distress, calling it a grave sin.During his weekly address in St. Peters Square, Pope Francis pointed out that some people are actively working to keep migrants out. He said, There are those who work systematically and with every means to reject migrants. And this, when done with conscience and responsibility, is a grave sin. Migrant crisis continues to divide EuropePope Francis has consistently spoken out about the treatment of migrants throughout his 11-year papacy. However, his recent words were particularly powerful, using strong Catholic language to condemn the mistreatment of migrants.The issue of migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea has sparked intense debate across Europe over the past decade. Many migrants travel from northern Africa and the Middle East in small, fragile boats, risking their lives to reach safety.The situation is dire, with the International Organization for Migration reporting that over 30,000 migrants have gone missing while attempting to cross the Mediterranean since 2014. The Popes strong words aim to bring attention to this critical issue and promote compassion and action to protect these vulnerable individuals.Take a look at the video:POPE FRANCIS: ITS A GRAVE SIN TO REJECT MIGRANTS“There are those who work systematically and with every means to reject migrants. And this, when done with conscience and responsibility is a grave sin.”pic.twitter.com/Ng9h2uq3am— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 28, 2024Doctors Without Borders denies wrongdoingIn Italy, a rescue ship run by Doctors Without Borders charity was ordered to be detained for 60 days on Monday. The authorities claimed that the ship, which had rescued people on August 23, didnt properly report its movements. However, the charity denied this, saying We have been sanctioned for simply fulfilling our legal duty to save lives.Pope Francis on migrationPope Francis weighed in on the issue, calling for more ways to safely welcome migrants and a fair global approach to managing migration. He emphasized that solving the problem requires cooperation and compassion, not just strengthening borders. The pope stressed that militarization of borders wont resolve the issue.Pope Francis had been delivering a series of reflections on Catholic spiritual matters during his weekly audiences. However, at the beginning of his remarks on Wednesday, he announced that he would be postponing that series for the week to focus on a more pressing issue. He wanted to draw attention to the plight of people who are crossing seas and deserts to find a place where they can live in peace and security.Pope Francis embarks on Southeast Asia tourThis weeks audience was significant not only because of the popes powerful words but also because it was his last before embarking on an ambitious four-country visit to Southeast Asia from September 2-13. This trip will be the longest undertaken by the 87-year-old pontiff, who has been using a wheelchair regularly due to knee and back pain. Despite his physical limitations, Pope Francis remains committed to his mission and will be travelling extensively to meet with people and share his message.
