**Pope Leo XIV Issues Dire Warning to Human Traffickers During Visit to Canary Islands**
*Canary Islands, Spain – June 12, 2026* – Pope Leo XIV has delivered a powerful message to human traffickers during his visit to the Canary Islands, emphasizing that those who exploit vulnerable migrants will face divine retribution. This statement came on the second day of his weeklong tour of Spain, where he is advocating for the rights and dignity of migrants.
During a public address on Friday, the Pope directly confronted those who profit from the desperation of individuals fleeing conflict and poverty in Africa. He condemned the actions of traffickers who “take advantage of people’s desperation [or] organise death routes,” urging them to “stop” and “repent.” He warned that for every life lost and every family deceived, they would ultimately have to answer to divine justice.
“Repent while there is still time,” Pope Leo stated, invoking the Catholic belief in the possibility of redemption for those who acknowledge their wrongdoings. His remarks underscore the moral imperative he sees in addressing the ongoing migrant crisis, particularly as the Canary Islands serve as a critical entry point into Europe for many seeking refuge.
The Pope's visit to the Canary Islands, located over 1,000 kilometers from mainland Spain, highlights the region's significance in the broader context of migration. In recent years, the islands have experienced a dramatic increase in migrant arrivals, with official data indicating that 46,843 migrants reached the Canaries in 2024, a stark contrast to fewer than 1,000 in 2015. Tragically, more than 3,000 individuals lost their lives attempting to make the perilous journey to these shores last year, according to the NGO Caminando Fronteras.
During his visit, Pope Leo also toured an interim housing center in Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, where he listened to the stories of migrants who have sought refuge there. Since its opening in 2021, the facility has accommodated approximately 70,000 people. One poignant testimony came from Bousso Diouf, who expressed that migrants are not seeking special privileges but rather “respect, humanity and the opportunity to live with dignity.”
The Pope’s remarks are part of a broader call to action for global leaders to welcome and integrate migrants into society. He has consistently emphasized the inherent dignity and rights of all individuals, urging governments to take a compassionate approach towards those fleeing dire circumstances.
In addition to addressing the issue of human trafficking, Pope Leo has praised Spain’s commitment to peace and solidarity throughout his tour. He has called for an end to polarization and division, advocating for a more inclusive and understanding society.
As the Pope continues his journey through Spain, his messages resonate with many who are concerned about the ongoing challenges faced by migrants and the moral responsibilities of nations to protect those in need. His visit to the Canary Islands serves as a reminder of the urgent need for action and compassion in addressing one of the most pressing humanitarian crises of our time.