BARCELONA, Spain (AP) – Pope Leo XIV is set to address the contentious topic of migration through upcoming visits to two critical locations: the Canary Islands, part of Spain, in the Atlantic next week, and Lampedusa island, Italy, in early July. These locations are known for their struggles with a significant influx of migrants, particularly from Africa, navigating some of the world's deadliest migration routes.
Despite a decline in migrant arrivals this year, the issue remains a focal point of political debate in Spain and Italy, both historically Catholic nations. Many in the Catholic community, alongside migrants themselves, hope that the papal trips will reorient the conversation towards compassion and solidarity, diverting it from the polarizing political discussions that have divided right-leaning factions and put them at odds with the left.
The Most Rev. José Mazuelos, bishop of Canarias, emphasized the importance of humanizing the migration debate by asserting, "We are talking about people, not numbers." This sentiment resonates with individuals like Eslim Jallow, 27, who migrated from Gambia to the Canary Islands in 2023. Jallow, now working as a programmer, expressed hope that the Pope's visit might change perceptions of immigrants, advocating for their dignity and respect.
Jallow's opinion reflects a broader trend within the Catholic Church, which has maintained a strong commitment to advocating for the humane treatment of migrants. This commitment is a continuation of the legacy of Pope Francis, who prioritized migration issues during his papacy. His previous visits to places like Lampedusa and the Greek island of Lesbos highlighted the need for compassionate responses to global migration crises.
Under Leo XIV, the Church has remained vocal about the importance of humane treatment for migrants, denouncing mass deportations, particularly in the U.S. "Pope Leo is signaling how important immigration is to him by doing these two trips early in his papacy," noted Michele Pistone, a professor at Villanova University.
During the visit to the Canary Islands, Pope Leo is expected at the port of Arguineguín on June 11, where he will pay tribute to the many migrants who have died or gone missing while attempting the perilous journey. The following day, he will meet with migrants at a camp on Tenerife, where nearly 47,000 migrants from North and West Africa arrived in 2024, including a significant number of unaccompanied minors.
The local Catholic organizations play a crucial role in assisting migrants as they arrive on the islands. They face ongoing challenges, particularly concerning the integration of young migrants who, upon turning 18, often find themselves without support or resources, as highlighted by Caya Suárez from Caritas in the Canaries. Despite a noticeable decrease in arrival numbers this year, the plight of these vulnerable individuals continues to be pressing.
On a national level, Spain’s Catholic Church endorsed a new measure that aims to grant temporary residency to over half a million undocumented migrants, primarily from Latin America, many of whom contribute to sectors like hospitality and eldercare. However, this proactive stance puts the Church at odds with far-right parties, such as Vox, which criticize these efforts under the guise of religious sentiment. The situation reflects a growing divide between the Church's humanitarian stance and political opposition.
As Pope Leo prepares to promote a message of reconciliation during his visits, many hope he will inspire a shift in mindset among both locals and migrants. Bishops like Eloy Santiago believe that the Pope's words could rejuvenate community support amidst the challenges faced by both the residents and migrants in the Canary Islands.
Amidst the ongoing struggle for better integration and support for migrants, the upcoming papal visits are seen as a vital opportunity to reaffirm the Church's commitment to welcoming those in need, amidst a backdrop of political controversy and societal challenges.
