Holy See representative to UN raises development, poverty, women’s issues

Archbishop Christophe-Zakhia El-Kassis, the Holy See's permanent observer to the United Nations, addressed the UN General Assembly on October 6, 2026, to advocate for global development, poverty reduction, and women's equality.

Speaking before the UN Third Committee, which handles social, humanitarian, and cultural issues, El-Kassis called for true equality for women. He also addressed the Second Committee, which manages economic and financial matters, urging that economic and technological progress prioritize the human person and the common good.

El-Kassis referenced a statement from Pope Leo XIV regarding human-centered development rather than the mere accumulation of wealth. He argued that eradicating poverty requires a system where the poor act as active participants in programs designed for their lives rather than remaining passive recipients of aid. He noted that achieving goals such as full employment and social integration requires sustained cooperation and a commitment to social development based on human dignity.