At the first International Summit on Children’s Rights, Pope Francis called on world leaders to pay attention to children affected by war, poverty, and migration. He condemned abortion and highlighted the urgent need to protect children within a “throwaway culture.” He emphasized that “nothing is worth more than the life of a child” and stated that children must be listened to, especially those suffering from violence and exploitation.
Pope Francis acknowledged the struggles faced by children, noting that despite some global progress, many still endure poverty, war, and inadequate education. He pointed out that even in wealthier countries, children experience mental health issues, violence, and social exclusion. He expressed concern about children in war zones and remarked on the unacceptable reality of children dying in conflicts fueled by power struggles and nationalism.
He criticized a “pathological individualism” in developed nations where children sometimes face neglect and abuse. The Pope also condemned the loss of young migrant lives and described the denial of childhood as a “silent scream” against economic failures and warfare. He highlighted the plight of over 40 million displaced children and 100 million who are homeless, while also mentioning the grim existence of child slavery and trafficking, which affects 160 million children.
Pope Francis pointed out the tragic fate of 150 million unregistered children, which leaves them vulnerable to harm and exploitation. He urged leaders to listen not only to children’s words but also to their silence and expressions. He called for a commitment to ensuring that children’s rights and dreams are at the center of global concerns and expressed hope that the summit could lead to a better world for children. Lastly, he encouraged participants to seize the opportunity presented by the meeting to work towards a brighter future for all children.