By Zoila Palma: Pope Leo has condemned widespread machismo and violence against women in Peru, calling for greater protection, respect and recognition of women’s equal dignity.
Today, the pontiff also urged the Catholic Church’s leadership to address social challenges and strengthen its commitment to protecting vulnerable communities.
Addressing thousands gathered at Lima’s Plaza Mayor, Pope Leo expressed concern over continued violence against women, describing it as a reality that wounds humanity.
He highlighted the disproportionate challenges faced by poor, Indigenous and Afro-Peruvian women and called for all women to be valued, protected and respected. Peru recorded 1,261 femicide victims between 2016 and 2024, according to the country’s National Institute of Statistics and Informatics.
The Pope also called on Peru’s Catholic bishops to demonstrate unity and strengthen their connection with the communities they serve.
He urged church leaders to accompany victims of clergy sexual abuse and respond with truth, justice, forgiveness and meaningful efforts to prevent further abuse. He emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring accountability for such crimes.
Pope Leo, formerly Robert Prevost, spent approximately two decades serving as a missionary priest and bishop in Peru before becoming pontiff in 2025.
His return has drawn large crowds, with approximately 40,000 people gathering in Lima to welcome him.
The post International News: Pope Leo condemns violence against women and calls for Justice during Peru visit appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Pope Leo has condemned widespread machismo and violence against women in Peru, calling for greater protection, respect and recognition of women’s equal dignity. Today, the pontiff also urged the Catholic Church’s leadership to address social challenges and strengthen its commitment to protecting vulnerable communities. Addressing thousands gathered at Lima’s Plaza Mayor, Pope
The post International News: Pope Leo condemns violence against women and calls for Justice during Peru visit appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
