lifenews.com
2026-06-12
Pope Leo described his message as "a calm and firm word" for the respect of human life, from the unborn to migrants and the elderly. He rejected the idea that defending life is merely a religious concern, declaring: "Defense of human life is not a particular or religious interest, it is a goal of civilization."
The remarks come as Spain, a historically Catholic nation where about 55 percent of people still identify as Catholic, is considering following France's example by making a constitutional amendment to protect abortion. The country also legalized euthanasia and medically assisted dying in 2021.
Leo framed abortion as part of a wider "throwaway culture" that threatens human existence. He tied the issue to migration and peace, presenting all three as questions of human dignity.
The speech drew a seven-minute standing ovation.
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