Francis in Hungary: Pope warns against exclusion

The speech was eagerly awaited: Pope Francis warned of a flare-up of nationalism during his visit to Hungary. In the presence of Prime Minister Orban, he campaigned for humane treatment of migrants.

Pope Francis is visiting Hungary – and in his first major speech he chose clear words in relation to Europe and migration. Before representatives of the Hungarian government and civil society in the former Carmelite monastery in Budapest, the head of the Catholic Church campaigned for the “European dream” and called for humane treatment of migrants and refugees.

Among other things, the 86-year-old Argentinian called for finding ways and means of taking in those fleeing conflict, poverty and climate change in Europe. Migration and flight is an issue that will affect everyone sooner or later. “It is therefore urgent that we as Europe work on safe and legal ways, on common mechanisms in the face of an epochal challenge that cannot be contained by rejection, but must be accepted.”

Warning of “pubescent warmongering”

He also emphasized the need for openness to others. Europe is of fundamental importance, especially in the context of the current world situation, and should “unite the excluded, welcome the peoples within and leave no one as an enemy forever”. In this context, he warned that “nationalisms are surging up again” – he often even has the impression that politics “rather stirs up tempers than solves problems”.

Francis also found clear words with regard to the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and warned against “pubescent warmongering”. “I ask myself, also with a view to the tormented Ukraine: Where are the creative peace efforts? Where are they?” he asked. “One has the impression of witnessing the sad demise of the common dream of peace, while the lone fighters of war are gaining ground.”

His speech to government officials had been eagerly awaited. Observers expected statements in advance that could be seen as cautiously critical of the right-wing populist Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Hungary’s laws on migration and refugees are often at odds with international and EU law. For example, it is generally not possible for people seeking protection who have reached Hungarian territory to apply for asylum.