On Thursday, October 16, 2025, Pope Leo XIV delivered a passionate appeal at a worldwide gathering in Rome.
He urged global leaders to take responsibility and address urgent food shortages affecting millions, marking a special occasion for an international food organization’s 80th year.
A Call for Awareness
Speaking to a global audience, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the struggles of countless people facing daily hunger. He pointed to ongoing conflicts in various regions, including eastern Europe, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and parts of Africa and Asia.
The pontiff strongly criticized the use of starvation as a tactic in warfare, urging a collective response.
“We cannot ignore the impact of our inaction,” he said in a moving address, mostly in his native tongue before switching to English.
“The empty plates of those in need demand we rethink how we live, what we value, and how we support one another.” He ended with a heartfelt plea: “We must share their pain as our own.”
Echoes of a Recent Message
This call aligns with the pope’s recent writings, where he warned against overlooking poverty and food scarcity. His words carry weight as communities worldwide face growing challenges.
Funding Struggles Threaten Aid
The appeal comes at a critical time. A major food relief group reported on Wednesday that its financial support this year is at a breaking point. Reduced contributions from key backers, including a leading western nation, threaten to disrupt aid efforts.
As a result, millions in several troubled regions spanning central Africa, the Horn of Africa, and parts of the Caribbean and Asia risk slipping into severe hunger.
With resources stretched thin, the pope’s message underscores the need for urgent action to protect vulnerable populations.
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