Vincenzo Paglia offers tribute to Emma Bonino

Monsignor Vincenzo Paglia, the former president of the Pontifical Academy for Life, has offered a tribute to the late political leader Emma Bonino, sparking debate regarding the Catholic Church's stance on divisive figures.

Paglia stated that while he disagreed with Bonino on specific issues such as abortion, he viewed her as a “daughter of God” and a “sister.” He emphasized that religious views do not define a person's entire existence, noting that he shared her convictions regarding the fight against world hunger and prison reform.

His comments have drawn criticism from more conservative factions within the Church, who view his praise of a prominent advocate for radical rights as a sign of identity loss or a strategic compromise with progressive thought. Meanwhile, Paglia maintained that his gesture was one of Christian humanity and prayer in the face of death.