In his message, the Pope shares his reflections on the growth of movements that threaten to overshadow the most vulnerable in society.
The Alpbach Forum brings together the most innovative young thinkers from Europe and around the world in politics, economics, civil society, culture and science to advance their ideas for a strong, democratic Europe.
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Below is the message sent by Pope Francis to the participants of the European Forum Alpbach (17-30 August 2024).
Dear participants of the European Forum Alpbach!
I am pleased to speak to you a little bit today. When I think of Europe, I think of it first and foremost as a continent of human rights. Most of the important universal human rights were developed here.
Europe is currently going through a period of crisis, which, like all crises, brings with it dangers and opportunities. It is a period in which various populist movements are experiencing great popularity. The reasons for this are mainly economic and political. Thus, in Europe, as a result of this “wave” of populism, we see the disappearance of some ideals and the disregard of some principles regarding the behavior towards vulnerable groups in society.
These ideals and principles, especially the ideas of human dignity and fraternity, remain ever linked to the foundations of the Gospel. Today, the cultural context has changed and the Church is called to live in a secularized society. But this does not surprise or frighten us, since we know very well that God is there. Rather, with renewed motivation, we, as Christians, strive to contribute to the enrichment of Catholic social doctrine, which asserts its universality. The European Union, too, has had a universalistic character since its creation, which it is to be hoped will not lose. In this respect, the fraternal dimension is particularly important. European society is therefore called to find ways and means to reduce its internal polarization and remain open to the world around it.
To all participants of the European Alpbach Forum, I thank you for your commitment in the midst of the social challenges of our time and I hope that you will be contagious witnesses to the European ideal. I congratulate you with all my heart and please pray for me. Thank you!
Rome, 21 August 2024
Francis
(Original text: German)
Holy See Press Office Bulletin, August 24, 2024
