Pope Leo in Canary Islands calls for humane migration pathways

Pope Leo has begun a visit to the Canary Islands, focusing on the dangerous journeys taken by migrants crossing the Atlantic in search of a better life

Pope Leo has begun a visit to the Canary Islands, focusing on the dangerous journeys taken by migrants crossing the Atlantic in search of a better life. The visit aims to draw global attention to the risks faced by those attempting to reach Europe by sea.

During his trip, the Pope is expected to honour migrants who lost their lives at sea. He will highlight cases of overcrowded boats, lack of supplies, and deadly sea crossings that have claimed hundreds of lives in recent months.

The Pope’s visit includes stops in Gran Canaria and Tenerife as part of a wider tour of Spain. He is expected to call for “safe and legal pathways” for migration and urge more humane treatment of those arriving irregularly.

In Gran Canaria, he will pay tribute to migrants who died during Atlantic crossings, including those whose boats never reached land. The Vatican has described the visit as a message of compassion and solidarity with vulnerable migrants.

The journey of migrants continues to reflect extreme hardship. Many travel from West African countries in overcrowded wooden boats, facing long sea routes, hunger, dehydration, and the constant risk of death.

Survivors describe traumatic journeys where survival often depends on luck or rescue at sea. Some migrants who reach the Canary Islands spend months in temporary camps before being moved into integration programs.

Local aid workers and church-led initiatives have stepped in to support young migrants who arrive without support systems. These programs offer shelter, training, and help with legal documentation.

However, many migrants face uncertainty after turning 18, when state care ends. Support organisations warn that without assistance, many risk falling into homelessness or exploitation.

Some local initiatives have helped migrants enter the workforce, particularly in sectors facing labour shortages such as construction, automotive repair, and tourism. Employers say migrants are filling gaps in jobs locals are unable or unwilling to take.

Spain is also implementing a temporary policy allowing undocumented migrants who arrived before a set deadline to apply for residency and work permits. The move has sparked political debate within the country and across Europe.

Supporters argue that the policy is necessary due to an ageing population and labour shortages. Critics say it could encourage further irregular migration and strain public services.

At the same time, the European Union is preparing stricter migration rules aimed at tightening border controls and increasing deportations of irregular arrivals.

Human rights groups have raised concerns that tougher measures may increase risks for asylum seekers attempting dangerous sea crossings.