Pope Leo XIV faces divided public interest and focus on poverty

A recent study by the Observatory of Beliefs in Argentina (Ocrear) reveals a divided public opinion regarding the upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV to Argentina. According to the 2026 Barometer of Religions and Beliefs, 49.3% of Argentines consider the visit important, while 50.7% view it as having little to no relevance.

Despite the split in interest, there is a clear consensus on the priorities expected from the Pontiff. The primary concern is poverty, cited by 43.2% of respondents, followed by international peace at 20.6%. These social issues significantly outweigh interest in Church doctrine or institutional matters. The data suggests a shift toward individualized faith, where people seek spiritual practices outside of formal religious structures.

In the Vatican, the first year and a half of Leo XIV’s pontificate has been characterized by discretion and prudence. Unlike previous papacies, his administration has maintained a high level of secrecy regarding internal matters, including his own recent illness, which he communicated personally to the public.