UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Catholics around the world and to all those mourning the loss of a compassionate and courageous moral leader.
Pope Francis was a tireless advocate for the rights and dignity of refugees, migrants and the forcibly displaced worldwide. He stood up and spoke out continuously and relentlessly for the victims of war and for those forced to flee their homes.
He drew the world’s attention to the human tragedies unfolding at Europe’s borders and those further away – emphasizing our shared responsibility in protecting the lives of those forced to flee.
Hearing from refugees firsthand in Lampedusa, Greece, Cyprus and beyond, he made a powerful call to the international community not to turn their back on those forced to flee.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis used his unique moral authority to call on governments and the wider international community to welcome, protect, promote, and integrate refugees into society – especially at a time when their desperate plight is too often met by barriers, rejection and fear. He also engaged in favour of the environment and nature.
His unwavering solidarity with displaced people, his commitment towards global peace, his engagement for humanitarian causes and his call for dialogue to resolve conflict and build solidarity inspired action, compassion, and a deeper sense of shared humanity. He was strongly committed to peace everywhere – from the Middle East to Colombia, to Ukraine, the Central African Republic, to Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Myanmar, he spoke for peace, reconciliation and dignity.
On World Refugee Day last year, he called on all “to welcome, promote, accompany and integrate those who knock on our doors,” praying that “States will strive to ensure humane conditions for refugees and to facilitate integration processes.”
His passing is a loss for us all who were inspired by his principles and values and his legacy will continue to guide and strengthen our work to protect those forced to flee.
Originally published by UNHCR on 21 April 2025
