CAFOD News

ALT A photo of CAFOD's Head of Region for Latin America, Diana Trimino, with a quote. It says: "This apostolic journey is momentous for the Catholic community in South America, especially for those in Peru where Pope Leo spent nearly two decades of his ministry. The Holy Father’s visit also has special significance for Indigenous Peoples, who regularly face threats and intimidation when protecting their ancestral lands. By hosting his first-ever papal Mass in the Amazon, Leo XIV will continue the work of Pope Francis, in championing vulnerable communities across the region whose lives have been marred by violence and environmental degradation. To protect the Amazon is to protect the life of all."

ALT A photo of CAFOD's Policy Lead for the Private Sector, Lucy Brill, with a quote. It says: "Having worked alongside communities in Peru and Colombia whose lives and livelihoods have been negatively impacted by British mining companies, CAFOD welcomes this important step towards holding irresponsible businesses to account. We are, however, concerned that environmental due diligence remains unaddressed. Businesses can only be held fully accountable for the impacts of their global operations if human rights and environmental protection are addressed hand in hand. The two are inextricably linked, and failing to address both risks leaving communities and the environment exposed to further harm. We stand ready to work with the Government to support the introduction of effective, timely legislation that ensures British businesses respect human rights and protect the environment in all their operations around the world."

ALT A photo of CAFOD Director Christine Allen with a quote. It reads: "We have gathered to pray for peace for all who call the holy land home, and to hear firsthand of the suffering endured by people living in occupied Palestinian territory. We welcome the Government’s action’s so far, especially banning trade with illegal Israeli settlements, and, for the first time, naming the Israeli occupation of Palestine unlawful. Sadly the extent of the suffering means we must act urgently and go further in support of our sisters and brothers in order to preserve prospects for a just and peaceful future. We call on the Government to increase international pressure to ensure accountability for all parties bringing about harm, and we continue our witness and prayers for peace.

ALT A quote graphic with a quote from CAFOD's Acting Emergency Programme Manager for Ukraine, Henry Wilson-Smith: "As Ukrainians approach a fifth winter of war, Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure have increased dramatically. Across the country people are exhausted, as they attempt to go about their lives under constant attack."

ALT A photo of Pope Leo XIV with an extract from his telegram message: "His Holiness sends heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved, together with the assurance of his spiritual closeness to those affected by this tragedy. Likewise offering prayers for the emergency personnel engaged in the ongoing rescue efforts, he invokes upon all divine assistance and protection."