Pope Leo XIV urges release of imprisoned Journalists

Pope Leo XIV has called for the release of imprisoned journalists and emphasized the vital importance of press freedom and ethical reporting in today’s world, Khaama Press reported. Speaking at his first official meeting with media representatives, the leader of the global Catholic Church condemned manipulative and war-mongering communication tactics, urging media outlets to focus on objective reporting rather than partisanship.

“The way we communicate is of fundamental importance,” the Pope said, stressing the need to avoid words and images that sow division and to reject warlike rhetoric. He highlighted the plight of journalists jailed for fulfilling their duty to inform the public, calling their suffering “a challenge to the conscience of the global community.”

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), 361 journalists were imprisoned worldwide by the end of last year, reflecting increasing repression of independent media. The CPJ warns this trend threatens freedom of information and expression globally.

Pope Leo XIV also addressed the ethical challenges posed by emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, urging journalists to use such tools responsibly to serve the public interest and ensure equitable benefits. He emphasized that truth must never be sacrificed for sensationalism or political gain.

The Vatican’s call comes amid growing government crackdowns on independent voices worldwide. The Pope appealed to governments and civil society to uphold press freedom as a foundation of peace, justice, and democracy, emphasizing that protecting truth is essential to protecting humanity itself.