Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People

Extracts from speeches by the Holy Father and positions taken by the Holy See concerning Refugees and
Internally Displaced Persons.

Overview of the period 
January 1, 2002 - January 31, 2003

An introductory remark: 

Forced migration of refugees and internally displaced persons and voluntary migration of migrants have become world-wide phenomena and are closely connected. Sometimes it even becomes difficult to distinguish between the two. Armed conflict, political oppression, poverty, the lack of safety nets for basic needs, the degradation of the environment, demographic imbalances and the lack of people’s participation in political processes all lead to migration to escape these conditions of life. This complexity should be taken into account when discussing the situation and especially when offering solutions.  

The dignity of the human person and his development as person form the basis of the social teaching of the Church which emphasizes social justice, subsidiarity, participation, solidarity and integral human development. This requires an answer of the international community in setting up the necessary structures and developing relevant legal instruments. The local Churches are also invited to assure appropriate pastoral responses and structures to sustain its programmes.. 

With this in mind, the following speeches were chosen. They emphasize certain aspects of the causes of forced or voluntary migration. They cover a broad range, dealing with economics, relations between states, structuring of society and reconciliation.