Key facts
- Pope Leo XIV visited Tenerife, Spain, on June 12, 2026.
- He called for integration based on mutual rights and duties.
- The Pope urged migrants to learn the local language and respect laws.
- He acknowledged the difficulties migrants face, including exploitation.
- The pontiff addressed and condemned people trafficking operations.
During his visit to Tenerife, Spain, on Friday, June 12, 2026, Pope Leo XIV urged for a 'reciprocal' integration between migrants and host countries. Speaking at a meeting with organizations working with migrants, the pontiff emphasized that integration requires shared responsibility, with migrants expected to learn the language, respect the law, understand local customs, and actively participate in community life.
Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the significant challenges migrants face, describing their post-arrival struggles as a 'silent shipwreck' where they can be left alone, without support, work, or security, and exposed to exploitation and abuse. He made these remarks during a visit to the Las Raíces reception center in Tenerife.
The Pope also directly addressed individuals involved in people trafficking, imploring them to cease their harmful activities and consider the suffering they cause. His visit to the Canary Islands, a key European gateway for migrants from Africa, concluded with an open-air Mass in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.