Pope Francis criticized populist politics and expressed concern about the state of democracy worldwide during a visit to Trieste on Sunday.
He highlighted how many people feel excluded from democratic processes, especially the poor and vulnerable who are left without support.
The 87-year-old pontiff warned against the allure of ideologies that can lead to division and self-denial, likening them to the Pied Piper of Hamelin.
He noted a global “crisis of democracy” without citing specific countries but emphasized the need to prioritize the common good over simplistic solutions.
Francis stressed the importance of teaching democratic values to children and condemned voter apathy, calling it a threat to democracy itself.
His visit, part of a busy travel schedule despite health challenges, underscores his commitment to addressing social injustice and promoting moral leadership globally.
Credit : Reuters
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/democracy-is-bad-health-pope-francis-says-2024-07-07/