Pope Urges Enhanced Care for Indigenous Peoples in Papua New Guinea

Pope Francis emphasized the urgent need to tackle climate change during his visit to Papua New Guinea, a Pacific Island nation threatened by rising ocean levels.

The Pope’s visit began on Friday and comes as many islanders in coastal areas face potential relocation due to rising sea levels. This trip marks the second stop in an 11-day tour that spans four nations.

Significant environmental challenges, such as deforestation and pollution stemming from mining activities, are also impacting water resources in Papua New Guinea. During a meeting on Saturday in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea’s Governor-General, Bob Dadae, addressed the Pope directly, confirming that rising sea levels are disrupting the livelihoods of local communities.

Dadae urged Pope Francis, who is 87 years old, to advocate for global action against climate change and the exploitation of natural resources. In response, Francis stated that while foreign enterprises are involved in resource extraction, it is essential for local populations to also receive benefits from these activities, enhancing their living conditions.

Furthermore, Pope Francis highlighted the vital role women play in Papua New Guinea and globally. He remarked that women are crucial in advancing societal growth, stating, “They are the ones who carry the country forward, give life, build and grow a country.”

Later in the day, during a meeting with bishops and clergy, he underscored the importance of supporting marginalized individuals who are suffering from various prejudices and superstitions.

Pope Francis also paid a visit to the Shrine of Mary, Help of Christians, in Port Moresby. He expressed his gratitude for the missionaries who introduced Christianity to the island nation, stating, “It is thanks to them, to their starts and restarts, that we are here and that despite the current challenges, we continue to move forward without fear, knowing we are not alone.”

This visit follows Pope Francis’s earlier stop in Indonesia, and he is set to travel to Vanimo, a city in the northwestern province of Papua New Guinea, on Sunday. This 11-day trip is the longest he has taken during his papacy and will conclude with visits to East Timor and Singapore.

Throughout this journey, the Pope’s message has consistently focused on solidarity, environmental stewardship, and the empowerment of local communities, as exemplified during his interactions in Papua New Guinea.