The Pope has expressed concern over the suffering and exploitation faced by migrant and refugee children around the world, calling for greater international efforts to protect their rights and dignity.

According to Reuters, during a public address in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope highlighted the difficult conditions experienced by many children on migration routes, including displacement, exploitation, and violence. He urged individuals, institutions, and governments to strengthen efforts to protect children seeking safety and a better future.

The Pope emphasized that minors traveling along migration routes can face severe hardships and require protection, care, and support from the international community.

His remarks are part of his broader calls for a more humanitarian approach to migration and refugee issues, including criticism of policies and practices that he says place additional burdens on displaced people.

He stressed the importance of upholding human dignity and ethical principles in addressing the challenges faced by refugees and migrants worldwide.