Pope Francis made an unexpected visit to Emma Bonino, a 76-year-old Italian politician and former minister, at her residence in Rome on 5 November. Bonino, known for her activism in favour of legalizing abortion, was recovering from a recent hospitalization due to cardiorespiratory problems caused by lung cancer. The Pope described their meeting as “very cordial” and assured that Bonino “is well.” This visit comes after the Pope meets with professors at the Pontifical Gregorian University.
Emma Bonino has been a key figure in Italian politics, particularly in the 1970s when she led the initiative to decriminalize abortion. She has also held prominent positions, including Foreign Minister in Enrico Letta’s government and European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection. Despite her disagreement with the Catholic Church’s influence in public life, Bonino’s work as an international mediator and advocate for migrants’ rights has fostered a cordial relationship with Pope Francis.
This is not the first meeting between Pope Francis and Emma Bonino. They previously met in 2015 and 2016 to discuss refugee children and migrant integration, issues close to the Pope’s heart. The Vatican’s official media highlighted these previous encounters, showcasing the complex and nuanced relationship between the Pope and Bonino.