VATICAN CITY — In his first formal address to the media since his election, Pope Leo XIV called for the release of imprisoned journalists who have been detained for “seeking and reporting the truth” and urged communicators worldwide to choose words that promote peace rather than division.
Speaking in the Vatican’s Paul VI Audience Hall on Monday, the newly elected pontiff—formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the first American pope in Catholic history—delivered a message that underscored both the power and the responsibility of the press.
“Peace begins with each one of us—in the way we look at others, listen to others, and speak about others,” Pope Leo said. “In this sense, the way we communicate is of fundamental importance. We must say ‘no’ to the war of words and images. We must reject the paradigm of war.”
Solidarity with Detained Journalists
Pope Leo reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s solidarity with members of the press who risk their freedom and lives to uphold the public’s right to be informed. He made a direct appeal for the release of journalists imprisoned for their reporting, particularly those covering war and human rights abuses.
“Let me reiterate today the Church’s solidarity with journalists who are imprisoned for seeking and reporting the truth,” he said. “Their suffering challenges the conscience of nations and the international community. It calls on all of us to safeguard the precious gift of free speech and a free press.”
The Pope went on to praise the courage of journalists who report from war zones and areas of repression, emphasizing that their work is essential for justice and human dignity.
“The Church recognizes in these witnesses—the reporters who risk their lives—the courage of those who defend dignity, justice, and the right of people to be informed,” he said. “Because only informed individuals can make free choices.”
According to Reporters Without Borders, as of December 1, 2024, a total of 550 journalists were imprisoned globally.
A Call for Peaceful Communication
While advocating press freedom, Pope Leo also cautioned journalists and communicators against weaponizing words or spreading hate.
“Let us disarm communication of all prejudice and resentment, fanaticism and hatred,” he urged. “We do not need loud, forceful communication, but rather communication that is capable of listening and of amplifying the voices of the weak and voiceless.”
He encouraged media professionals to consciously choose a “path of communication in favor of peace,” particularly when covering stories of conflict, injustice, and poverty.
Pope Leo XIV, who was known for his active presence on social media prior to his election, has long championed digital responsibility and ethical journalism. His remarks signal a renewed Vatican emphasis on global media freedom, responsible communication, and the defense of fundamental human rights.
“Let us disarm words,” he concluded, “and we will help to disarm the world.”
Pope Leo XIV Audience For Journalists by Mazur/cbcew.org.uk for Catholic Church England and Wales
