He observed that global crises have evolved from isolated emergencies into persistent conditions characterised by prolonged conflicts, chronic food insecurity, economic instability and growing climate-related vulnerabilities.
Pope Leo XIV has lamented what he described as a troubling global reality in which conflicts receive greater attention and resources than efforts to feed millions of hungry people, warning that the imbalance reflects a deeper failure of political and moral priorities across the international community.
Speaking on Monday during an address to the Executive Board of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) at its headquarters in Rome, the Pontiff said humanitarian assistance and development initiatives are frequently obstructed by political decisions, ideological divisions and bureaucratic barriers, while weapons continue to move freely across conflict zones.
“Conflicts are ‘fed’ more readily than people are nourished,” Pope Leo said as quoted by Vatican News. “This reality reflects not only operational shortcomings but also a fundamental imbalance in political and moral priorities.”
The Pope thanked the WFP for its efforts in saving lives during emergencies and delivering food assistance in areas affected by war, natural disasters and humanitarian crises, noting that the organisation’s mission closely aligns with the Catholic Church’s commitment to protecting human dignity and promoting solidarity.
