In his message to the attendees of the 2024 World Economic Forum in Davos, Pope Francis called for a unified approach to tackle global challenges, emphasizing the moral imperatives in economic and global development.
Addressing an audience that includes political, economic, and business elites, the Pope stressed the urgent need for an ethical overhaul of globalization.
Amid a “troubling climate of international instability,” the Pope expressed deep concern over the destructive impact of prolonged conflicts and wars, which “no longer take place only on clearly defined battlefields.” He lamented the indiscriminate suffering inflicted upon civilians, saying “there is no conflict that does not end up in some way striking the civilian population.”
Pope Francis criticized the stark inequalities that continue to plague global society, asking, “How is it possible that in today’s world people are still dying of hunger, being exploited, condemned to illiteracy, lacking basic medical care, and left without shelter?” He condemned the exploitation of natural resources and labor, highlighting the plight of those “forced to work for low wages and deprived of real prospects for personal development and professional growth.”
The Pope called for a “fundamentally moral dimension” in addressing these global issues, urging states and businesses to collaborate in promoting “far-sighted and ethically sound models of globalization.” He emphasized that true development should prioritize “the common good of our human family, giving priority to the poor, the needy, and those in the most vulnerable situations.”
He reminded the world leaders of their “moral responsibility” in the fight against poverty and the pursuit of a peaceful coexistence among peoples.
Pope Francis concluded with a hopeful vision, advocating for a world where international organizations, NGOs, and IGOs work together to achieve common good, ensuring that development is truly global and shared by all.
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