Association for Defending Victims of Terrorism – With a powerful appeal to the international community to implement lasting resolutions for the safeguard of lives and the dignity of migrants and refugees, Pope Francis says his thoughts never stray from the predicament of the thousands of men, women and children stranded in Libya as they search to reach Europe in the hope of a better life.
“I express my closeness to the thousands of migrants, refugees and others who are in need of protection in Libya: I never forget you. I hear your cries and I pray for you.”
Addressing the faithful following the Sunday Angelus in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis said that “so many of these men, women and children are subjected to senseless and inhumane violence.”
Once again, he said, “I ask the International Community to keep its promises” and to find concrete and long-term solutions to regulate the migratory flows in Libya and throughout the Mediterranean.”
“It is necessary to end the practice of returning migrants to countries that are insecure and to give priority to life-saving operations in the sea,” the Pope added, appealing for safe and legal passages for those on the move and for the possibility for them to disembark in safe ports.
He called for legislation that will” guarantee dignified life conditions” that, he said, must provide “an alternative to detention, as well as legal immigration and asylum procedures.”
Pope Francis concluded his appeal, inviting us all to take responsibility for the situation of these brothers and sisters of ours, and asked everyone to pray in silence.
