Pope Urges leaders To listen To the poor.

Pope Leo XIV has called on global leaders to pay attention to the voices of the poor, emphasizing that true peace cannot exist without justice.

In a message shared on social media on November 16, 2025, the Pope urged presidents and heads of state to hear “the cry of the marginalized” and respond with fairness.

“The poor remind us of a simple but profound truth: there can be no peace without justice,” Pope Leo said. He warned that the concerns of vulnerable communities are often silenced by development policies that exclude them, highlighting a gap in approaches that prioritize growth without inclusion.

The Pope noted that the cries of the poor are expressed in many ways, including through migration and protests, but these expressions are frequently overlooked or suppressed. He called on leaders to recognize these signals as urgent messages demanding action and systemic change.

Speaking from St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo stressed that poverty is not merely an economic issue but also a moral and social concern. He highlighted the importance of social justice and urged governments to implement policies that ensure equal access to education, healthcare, and livelihoods.

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He also acknowledged the work of charities, volunteers, and civic organizations, calling them “the conscience of society” for defending the rights and dignity of those most vulnerable. According to Pope Leo, the poor are “not just a statistical category but the living embodiment of human dignity,” a point he repeatedly emphasized throughout his remarks.

The Pope’s message serves as a reminder that inclusion, respect, and fairness must guide governance. He encouraged leaders to foster a culture of attention toward marginalized communities, listening to their concerns and implementing policies that respond to structural inequalities.

Finally, Pope Leo urged the international community to recognize the importance of the World Day of the Poor, an observance aimed at raising awareness about poverty and promoting solidarity with vulnerable populations. He stressed that governments and societies alike have a moral responsibility to ensure no one is left behind in the pursuit of peace and prosperity.