Pope Leo XIV made a powerful appeal on Monday for the release of journalists imprisoned around the world, stressing the vital importance of free speech and a free press. Addressing thousands of media professionals gathered in Rome to cover his historic election as the first American pope, Leo underscored his commitment to press freedom during his first meeting with members of the general public.
The newly elected pontiff, a 69-year-old Augustinian missionary, received a warm standing ovation as he entered the Vatican auditorium. His appearance marked his initial public engagement following the 24-hour conclave that resulted in his election last week.
In his remarks, Pope Leo emphasized the moral responsibility of journalists to use their words to promote peace, oppose violence, and amplify the voices of the marginalized. Speaking with clarity and conviction, he expressed solidarity with reporters who have been jailed for their efforts to uncover and share the truth.
“The church recognises in these witnesses — I am thinking of those who report on war even at the cost of their lives — the courage of those who defend dignity, justice and the right of people to be informed, because only informed individuals can make free choices,” he stated, earning renewed applause from the crowd.
He added, “The suffering of these imprisoned journalists challenges the conscience of nations and the international community, calling on all of us to safeguard the precious gift of free speech and of the press.”
Leo began his speech with a few words in English, injecting a touch of humor by joking that the audience’s response at the end of his address would mean more than the initial ovation he received upon arrival. He then transitioned to Italian to convey his main message, expressing appreciation for the press’s coverage of the papal transition.
He urged the assembled journalists to embrace their role as communicators of peace, emphasizing the immense power of words in shaping the world. “Peace begins with each one of us: in the way we look at others, listen to others and speak about others,” he said. “In this sense, the way we communicate is of fundamental importance: we must say ‘no’ to the war of words and images, we must reject the paradigm of war.”
The Pope’s words carried a strong appeal for ethical journalism and the peaceful use of media in a time when conflict and misinformation continue to threaten societal stability. He highlighted the importance of communication that builds understanding rather than division.
Following his brief but impactful address, Pope Leo took time to interact with those seated near the front. He greeted several journalists personally and walked down the central aisle of the audience hall, shaking hands with many attendees. He signed autographs and even posed for selfies, offering a down-to-earth touch to the otherwise formal occasion.
Some journalists later shared snippets of their private conversations with the pope, revealing that discussions are underway for Leo to visit Turkey. The planned trip would commemorate the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea, the first ecumenical council in Christianity and a significant milestone in Catholic-Orthodox relations.
There were also moments of light-hearted interaction. A few reporters offered to play tennis with the pope or organize a charity doubles match. Known for being an avid tennis player, Leo responded with a laugh, “But we can’t invite Sinner,” a joking reference to Jannik Sinner, the world’s top-ranked tennis player who was competing nearby at the Italian Open.
The event echoed a similar gathering in 2013 when Pope Francis addressed journalists following his election as the first Latin American pope. At that time, Francis explained his choice of name, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, and shared his vision for “a church which is poor and for the poor!”
Over the course of his 12-year papacy, Pope Francis frequently spoke about the importance of journalism and its essential role in society. As recently as January, Francis made his own appeal for the release of imprisoned journalists during a Holy Year event focused on the media.
Pope Leo’s message on Monday reinforced that tradition, but with a renewed urgency and personal touch shaped by his background as a missionary and his American roots. His call for ethical journalism and protection of press freedom resonated deeply in a room filled with professionals who often risk their safety to report the truth.
The audience hall was packed with some 6,000 journalists who had traveled to Rome from around the globe to cover Leo’s unexpected election. Many in attendance viewed the pontiff’s address as a bold and welcome affirmation of the importance of their work at a time when journalists face increasing threats, censorship, and persecution in many countries.
By focusing on the theme of peaceful communication and the plight of imprisoned reporters, Pope Leo drew a clear line connecting the Church’s values with the need for transparency, justice, and access to information. His remarks were widely seen as a call to action not only for political leaders and the international community, but also for media organizations and individuals who shape public discourse.
In a time marked by war, political instability, and digital misinformation, Leo’s message served as both a blessing and a challenge. The Pope urged journalists not just to report on the world’s problems but to serve as beacons of integrity and compassion in their storytelling.
This historic first public appearance offered a glimpse of Pope Leo XIV’s priorities and leadership style. Grounded in faith but attentive to the challenges of the modern world, he used his platform to champion a free and ethical press, appealing to both conscience and courage.
As the Vatican prepares for the potential trip to Turkey and Leo begins to shape the direction of his papacy, Monday’s speech stands as a strong opening chapter. It reminded the world that the Church remains committed to truth, justice, and the people who fight to uphold them.
With warmth, humor, and unwavering resolve, Pope Leo XIV has made it clear that his pontificate will stand firmly in defense of the freedom of speech and the press—a message that, like the journalists he addressed, will echo far beyond the walls of the Vatican.