Pope Leo XIV ends Canary Islands visit urging migration reform

Pope Leo XIV concluded a seven‑day tour of Spain with a final stop in the Canary Islands, where he addressed large crowds at the ports of Arguineguín and Santa Cruz and at a mass in Tenerife. The pontiff used the occasion to spotlight the ongoing Atlantic migration crisis, calling for safe, legal routes and stronger cooperation among countries of origin, transit and destination. He condemned people‑trafficking mafias and urged an integrated response that includes language learning, respect for local laws and community participation for newcomers.

During his visit, migrants and aid organisations shared personal testimonies, and the Pope emphasized that “the love of God knows no borders” and that societies must act with dignity and responsibility toward those seeking a better life. His remarks were accompanied by calls for an end to the “silent shipwrecks” that affect migrants after they reach European shores.