Pope Leo XIV has renewed his prayers for people suffering amid wars across the world and made a special appeal for the people of Myanmar, who continue to face one of Asia’s worst humanitarian crises.
During his General Audience on 5 November, the pope urged believers to join him in praying for all those enduring the violence of war. “I invite you to join me in prayer for all who are tried by the violence of war in different parts of the world,” he said, according to Vatican News.
Focusing on Myanmar, the Holy Father appealed to the international community “not to forget the Burmese people and to provide the necessary humanitarian assistance.”
The pontiff’s plea comes as Myanmar continues to suffer from civil war and economic collapse following the 2021 military coup that overthrew the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. Thousands have been killed in ongoing clashes between the military and armed resistance forces, while around three million people have been displaced.
Entire villages and towns have been destroyed in airstrikes and shelling. Millions now live in temporary shelters without adequate food, clean water, or medicine. The United Nations estimates that more than half of Myanmar’s 55 million citizens need humanitarian aid.
Among the worst affected are the Rohingya Muslim minority in Rakhine State, who have long faced persecution and denial of citizenship. More than 750,000 Rohingya fled to Bangladesh following the 2017 military crackdown, which the UN described as “a textbook example of ethnic cleansing.” Many of those who remain live in heavily restricted conditions with limited rights and freedom of movement.
Analysts say that the military’s continued dominance and lack of accountability for past atrocities, including those against the Rohingya, paved the way for the 2021 coup led by General Min Aung Hlaing.
Pope Leo has repeatedly called for peace in Myanmar. On 19 October, he expressed deep concern over reports of fresh airstrikes and civilian attacks, saying, “I renew my heartfelt appeal for an immediate and effective ceasefire. May the instruments of war give way to those of peace, through inclusive and constructive dialogue.”
Despite the worsening conflict, Myanmar’s military junta plans to hold national elections in December, a move widely criticised by human rights groups as an attempt to legitimise its rule.
Adapted from UCA News.
