Pope Leo XIV Calls for Protection of Migrant Children Ahead of World Day of Migrants

Pope Leo XIV used his weekly general audience on September 23, 2026, to call on governments, churches, and individuals to protect migrant and refugee children from violence and exploitation.

His formal message for the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, observed on September 27, carries the title "Even Just One of These Children," drawn from Matthew 18:10. The Vatican released the message on August 11, 2026.

The Pope described migrant children as the most vulnerable group within global migration. He said they face "unspeakable suffering," including violence, torture, labor exploitation, sexual abuse, forced marriage, and recruitment into armed conflicts. He noted that trauma follows these children not only during their journeys but also through family separation caused by repatriation.

Leo XIV structured his call to action across four levels. He urged individuals to listen to the stories and fears of displaced children rather than remain indifferent. He called on Christian communities to move beyond symbolic gestures and treat migrant children as their own sons and daughters. He asked faith communities of all traditions to cooperate in building protective networks. And he pressed civil institutions to prioritize the best interests of the child over migration management.

The Pope concluded by entrusting displaced children to the protection of the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph, drawing a parallel between their flight into Egypt and the experiences of refugee families today.

The appeal comes as global displacement figures remain near record highs. Advocacy groups say children account for roughly 40 percent of the world's displaced population.