A Strong Call for Press Freedom

In an impactful debut address to the media at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV has made a bold statement calling for the release of journalists currently imprisoned for their brave pursuit of truth. This marks a significant moment as he steps into his new role as the leader of the Catholic Church.

Expressing deep solidarity, Pope Leo emphasized that the hardships faced by these journalists "challenge the conscience of nations and the international community." He reinforced the critical need to defend press freedom and protect the "precious gift" of free speech.

Highlighting the Journalist's Role

The Pope didn't shy away from addressing the pressing issue of media responsibility. He pointed out the vital role journalists play in shedding light on injustices and poverty around the globe. He urged media professionals to commit to reporting the truth rather than becoming mired in political divides, and to resist propagating "fanaticism and hatred."

Communication: A Tool for Peace

Speaking passionately from the Vatican's Paul VI audience hall, Pope Leo said, "We must say 'no' to the war of words and images; we must reject the paradigm of war." He called for a shift away from aggressive communication towards methods that prioritize listening and uplifting the voices of the marginalized.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Journalism

Cautioning the assembled media about the implications of artificial intelligence, the Pope urged cautious and responsible use of this technology. He declared that AI should be harnessed to benefit all of humanity, not just a select few.

A Light-hearted Beginning to a Serious Address

Pope Leo XIV, who primarily spoke in Italian, lightened the atmosphere with a playful quip in English, appreciating the warm applause he received upon entering the room. "They say that when they clap at the beginning, it doesn't matter much. If you're still awake at the end and still want to applaud, thank you very much," he remarked, engaging the audience right from the start.