The Pope’s Appeal to Humanise Borders

Pope Leo XIV visited the Canary Islands on June 11 and 12, 2026, to address the migrant crisis at Europe's southern border. The pilgrimage followed an invitation from the bishops of the archipelago's two dioceses and the president of the Canary Islands government.

The visit highlighted the dangers of one of the world's deadliest migration routes, where tens of thousands of people arrive by sea each year. Between 2020 and 2024, the islands saw significant arrivals, particularly those traveling in small boats known as cayucos. The Pope also addressed the challenges regarding the large number of unaccompanied adolescents who require care from the local autonomous government and the urgent need for shelter for migrants waiting to travel to mainland Europe.

While many immigrants living in the Canary Islands originate from Latin America or Europe, the Pope's visit focused on the dramatic reality of those arriving by sea. This trip followed a July 4 visit to Lampedusa and fulfilled a goal previously held by Pope Francis.