Pope Leo called for nations to adopt universal healthcare during a speech presented before the Council of the Bishops’ Conferences of Europe, the World Health Organization (European Region), and the Italian Episcopal Conference.
The “moment of reflection,” called “Today who is my neighbor,” addresses the “inequalities in the field of healthcare,” a statement from The Holy See explained.
“Health cannot be a luxury for the few. On the contrary, it is an essential condition for social peace. Universal health coverage is not merely a technical goal to be achieved; it is primarily a moral imperative for societies that wish to call themselves just,” the Pope said. “Healthcare must be accessible to the most vulnerable, then, not only because their dignity requires it but also to prevent injustice from becoming a cause of conflict.”
Pope Leo went on to declare, “Only together can we build communities of solidarity capable of caring for everyone, in which wellbeing and peace can flourish for the benefit of all. Caring for the humanity of others helps us to live our own lives to the full.”
He later added that addressing healthcare issues represents the “Christian lifestyle.”
“The Churches in Europe and throughout the world, in cooperation with international organizations, can still play a decisive role today in combating inequalities in healthcare, particularly in support of the most vulnerable populations,” Pope Leo said. “Therefore, I renew my hope – indeed I urgently appeal – that ‘our Christian lifestyle will always reflect this fraternal, “Samaritan” spirit – one that is welcoming, courageous, committed and supportive, rooted in our union with God and our faith in Jesus Christ.'”
