Pope Leo XIV Urges Action on Migrant Minors, Calls for Addressing Root Causes

Pope Leo XIV has called for intervention in the countries of origin of migrant minors to eliminate the possible causes that force them to flee, urging transit and host nations to offer them protection. The Pontiff noted that these vulnerable groups often find themselves more easily relegated to invisibility. The statements are part of a message published for the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, to be held on September 27 under the theme "Even one of these little ones, focusing this year on minors affected by migration.

Leo XIV clarified that it is not a question of numbers or statistics, explaining they are concrete faces and unique stories that appeal to conscience. However, he did express that data is increasing, with millions of minors forced to leave their homes due to wars, poverty, violence, or other tragedies: "The economic, political, and military responsibilities of this disaster are immense. The Pope's words carry added weight amid the migration crisis in Ceuta, where more than 70,000 migrants entered from Morocco on July 30; according to the latest Interior Ministry data, 1,898 minors have been identified.