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Pope Leo has declared the provision of universal healthcare a “moral imperative”.
The pontiff’s use of such a strong term is unusual for a pope, as it signifies that the provision of healthcare is a fundamental requirement rooted in Catholic teaching.
While Leo did not name any specific countries, he is the first pontiff from the US – a country without universal health coverage.
Speaking at a healthcare conference organised by the World Health Organization and European bishops, he said: “Universal health coverage is … a moral imperative for societies that wish to call themselves just.”
He added: “Healthcare must be accessible to the most vulnerable … not only because their dignity requires it but also to prevent injustice from becoming a cause of conflict. Health cannot be a luxury for the few.”
Previous popes have also advocated for universal healthcare.
Pope Leo has declared the provision of universal healthcare a ‘moral imperative’ (AP)
Leo’s predecessor, Pope Francis, called for healthcare systems to be “accessible to all” in 2021, citing Italy’s tax-funded health service as a model.
Leo urged European bishops at the meeting to tackle inequalities within their healthcare systems.
He concluded with a message of collective responsibility: “Only together can we build communities of solidarity capable of caring for everyone. Caring for the humanity of others helps us to live our own lives to the full.”
Last week, Leo took a veiled swipe at President Donald Trump, saying that Christian political leaders who start wars should go to confession and assess if they are following the teachings of Jesus.
“Do those Christians who bear grave responsibility in armed conflicts have the humility and courage to make a serious examination of conscience and to go to confession?” the pope asked in a speech to priests.
While Leo did not name anyone, in recent days he has been ramping up calls for an end to the ongoing Iran war, which began with joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on 28 February.
Trump was raised in the Presbyterian Christian faith. Several of his top deputies, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are Catholic.