Pope Leo has voiced renewed alarm over escalating violence, discrimination, and persecution targeting Christian communities across several countries, including Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, Bangladesh, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
His remarks come amid mounting global concern and intensifying conflict in multiple regions. The warning follows the United States’ recent declaration of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” (CPC), citing widespread allegations of Christian genocide.
Nigeria has faced heavy criticism for its inability to curb recurring assaults on communities dominated by Christians, especially in the country’s Middle Belt and northeastern regions.
Last month, US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Nigerian authorities, cautioning of potential diplomatic and military consequences if the violence persisted.
He instructed the U.S. Department of War to prepare for possible action, emphasizing that any intervention would be “fast, vicious, and sweet.”
Sharing his concerns on his official X account, Pope Leo condemned ongoing attacks on Christian populations and worship centres worldwide. He urged the international community to unite in defending religious minorities and fostering global stability.
“In various parts of the world, Christians suffer discrimination and persecution,” the Pontiff stated. “I think especially of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, and other countries from which we frequently hear of attacks on communities and places of worship.”
The Pope also extended heartfelt prayers to families affected by recent violence in eastern DRC, particularly in the volatile Kivu region. The area has long battled armed insurgency, but recent weeks have seen a sharp rise in civilian massacres, prompting renewed fear and displacement.
“God is a merciful Father who desires peace among all His children,” he said, offering spiritual support to the grieving families of Kivu. “I accompany in prayer the families of Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where in recent days there has been a massacre of civilians.”
Human rights organisations continue to document increasing attacks on churches, clergy, and vulnerable settlements across Africa and Asia.
In Nigeria, armed groups have repeatedly targeted Christian farmers and worshippers, while in Mozambique’s northern Cabo Delgado province, extremist violence continues to uproot entire communities.
Bangladesh and Sudan have also reported rising threats against Christian minorities, with churches facing vandalism, harassment, and government neglect. Advocacy groups warn that global inaction risks allowing these crises to worsen.
Pope Leo concluded his message with a powerful appeal for unity, urging believers and world leaders to work together toward peace and justice. “Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good,” he said.
His call adds to growing international pressure for coordinated action to protect persecuted religious communities. As violence escalates across multiple regions, global leaders face mounting demands to respond decisively and uphold fundamental human rights.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
