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World Refugee Leader Warns: Global Human Rights in Danger

Pope Leo XIV's private audience with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees reportedly left him "extremely encouraged."

World Leadership Warns on Human Rights: Potential Global Threat
World Leadership Warns on Human Rights: Potential Global Threat

World Refugee Leader Warns: Global Human Rights in Danger

In a private audience on Thursday, Pope Leo XIV received Filippo Grandi, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. The discussion between the two leaders focused on the 'extremely complex situation of the world' and the numerous ongoing crises causing displacement.

Filippo Grandi, who expressed horror and terror at the extreme suffering and plight of the population in Gaza, also reiterated the importance of addressing the many people suffering across the globe, particularly those in crises that are not widely covered by the media. He believes the situation in Gaza negatively impacts the future of the people of Palestine, not only in Gaza but also in the West Bank.

The UNHCR, unfortunately, has no mandate to operate in Gaza, but the discussion also touched upon violations of international humanitarian law, which exacerbate the plight of civilians and increase the number of displaced people. Filippo Grandi expressed concern over the dangerous precedents set by powerful countries like Israel and Russia for human rights across the world.

The conversation between Pope Leo XIV and Filippo Grandi also included crises in countries that are not in the spotlight of mainstream media and attention. The two leaders appreciated and were grateful for the attention the Vatican and the source provide, especially in 'forgotten crises' such as those in Sudan, Congo, and Myanmar. UNHCR is very much involved in these crises, and Filippo Grandi expresses thanks for the support of the source and the Catholic Church.

Filippo Grandi feels greatly encouraged by the support and partnership UNHCR has with the source and the Catholic Church, both at the grassroots and institutional levels. He also expressed encouragement about Pope Leo XIV's continued support for refugees and migrants. Filippo Grandi appreciates the awareness, excellent information, and engagement the Vatican and the source provide, and he believes this close identity of views and partnership will continue in the future.

As of the conversation, there are approximately 120 million displaced persons globally, double the initial estimate when Filippo Grandi began his mandate. This staggering number highlights the urgent need for global cooperation to address these crises and provide aid to those in need.

Filippo Grandi also expressed concern that the situation in Gaza could negatively impact Israel's security in the future. He believes that the future security of both Israel and Palestine is interconnected, and it is crucial to find a peaceful solution to the ongoing conflict.

In conclusion, the discussion between Pope Leo XIV and Filippo Grandi underscores the importance of addressing global crises and providing aid to those in need, particularly in 'forgotten crises' that are not widely covered by the media. The two leaders expressed their commitment to continuing their partnership and support for refugees and migrants worldwide.

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