Pope Leo XIV began a four-day visit to France on Thursday, delivering remarks that touched on several social, ethical, and cultural issues amid a high-profile itinerary in Paris. One of the most notable moments came during a speech at the Elysée Palace, where the Pope addressed concerns about recent legal and societal developments in the country.
Speaking alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, who officially welcomed the pontiff with a ceremonial red carpet, Pope Leo expressed apprehension about a new law passed by the French parliament in July that permits assisted dying. The legislation allows certain adults with incurable conditions to opt for assisted suicide or, under specific circumstances, euthanasia. Previously, medical professionals could withdraw treatment or provide sedation until death but were prohibited from actively ending a patient’s life.
In his remarks, the Pope cautioned against trends in society that risk commodifying science and technology. He mentioned genetic manipulation, surrogacy, organ trade, and notably, “the possibility of arranging one’s own death” as developments that warrant ethical scrutiny. The Vatican opposes the law on the grounds that human life is sacred and emphasizes the importance of providing vulnerable patients with palliative care rather than assisted death. This stance contrasts with recent legislative developments in some other countries, including a parliamentary vote earlier this month in the United Kingdom, where lawmakers rejected a proposal to permit assisted dying for terminally ill adults.
Beyond the topic of euthanasia, Pope Leo addressed broader ethical concerns related to technology and modern society. At the Elysée, he warned against losing humanity in what he described as an “AI-driven paradise of machines” and called for an urgent improvement in education focused on ethical discernment. Given France’s longstanding principle of laïcité, or secularism, the Pope also made a point to state that “authentic secularity” should not exclude religion from public life. This was particularly relevant as France has implemented laws restricting religious symbols in schools and public spaces, a subject of ongoing debate within the country. President Macron responded earlier by affirming that French secularism protects religious freedom and does not negate religion.
The Pope’s visit featured a packed schedule, including a speech at Unesco where he praised the organization as a key platform for humanity’s reflection on its history and future, especially as the agency faces financial difficulties. He also became the first pontiff to enter Notre-Dame Cathedral since its reopening after the 2019 fire. The day concluded with a mass and youth vigil at the Stade de France, where an estimated 80,000 young people gathered. The visit has drawn significant attention, with heightened security measures including thousands of police, soldiers, and firefighters deployed across Paris, as authorities manage the large crowds and ensure safety throughout the event.