Pope Leo XIV has called for the immediate release of journalists imprisoned for “seeking and reporting the truth,” emphasizing the critical role of free and responsible journalism in promoting peace and justice.
The newly elected pontiff made the appeal on Monday, May 12, during his first formal address to the media at the Vatican’s Paul VI audience hall, just days after his election by the College of Cardinals in a closed conclave.
In his speech, Pope Leo, formerly known as Robert Francis Prevost, warned against the misuse of language and media to incite hatred. “Peace begins with each one of us — in the way we look at others, listen to others, and speak about others,” he said. “We must say ‘no’ to the war of words and images. We must reject the paradigm of war.”
Reaffirming the Church’s commitment to press freedom, the Pope expressed solidarity with journalists imprisoned around the world for upholding truth and accountability. “The Church recognises in these witnesses — especially those reporting from war zones at great personal risk — the courage to defend human dignity, justice, and the right of people to be informed,” he said. “Only informed individuals can make free choices.”
Pope Leo also urged the global community to reflect on the plight of detained journalists, which he said “challenges the conscience of nations and the international community.” According to Reporters Without Borders, 550 journalists were detained as of December 1, 2024.
Reminding reporters of their ethical responsibilities, the Pope added: “Let us disarm communication of all prejudice, resentment, fanaticism, and hatred. Let us free it from aggression. We do not need loud, forceful communication but rather one that listens and amplifies the voices of the voiceless.”
He concluded by encouraging those reporting on conflict, injustice, and poverty to “choose consciously and courageously the path of communication in favour of peace.”
