On the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse on June 26, Pope Francis delivered a powerful speech against the legalization of drugs, calling drug traffickers 'murderers' and 'dealers of death.' The Pope emphasized that reducing drug addiction cannot be achieved by liberalizing drug consumption, a stance he described as a 'fantasy.'
Pope Francis' speech coincided with the release of data from the Federal Statistical Office, showing a steady decline in hospital treatments due to drug abuse in Germany since 2016. According to the data, the number of people hospitalized for consuming illegal drugs fell from nearly 20,800 in 2016 to around 17,800 in 2022, marking a 17 percent decrease.
The Pope's condemnation extended to drug dealers, whom he urged to repent and change their ways. He called for increased efforts in prevention and treatment for addicts, asserting that they are children of God deserving of human dignity. He also praised countries and programs that have successfully raised awareness among young people about the dangers of drug use.
Pope Francis' commitment to combating drug abuse is deeply personal, having worked for years in the slums of Buenos Aires where the cheap drug paco wreaked havoc. During his visits abroad, he has made it a priority to visit recovering addicts, further underscoring his dedication to this cause.
In addition to his speech on drug legalization, Pope Francis has previously addressed the issue of drug trafficking-related violence, particularly in Rosario, Argentina. He has called for comprehensive responses and highlighted the need for political consensus and dialogue to create effective public policies. The Pope also stressed the role of the business sector in preventing complicity with mafia organizations and promoting social commitment.
The Pope's message on drug abuse and trafficking is clear: society must act courageously to end the production and trade of dangerous substances, support prevention and treatment efforts, and uphold the dignity of those affected by addiction.
- Pope Francis has a long history of addressing the issues of drug abuse and trafficking, often speaking out against the violence and social decay they cause. His work in Buenos Aires' slums exposed him to the devastating effects of drugs like paco, shaping his strong stance on the issue.
- In his speech, the Pope highlighted the success of certain countries and programs in educating young people about the dangers of drug use. He praised these efforts as essential in the fight against drug abuse.
- The Pope's call for the conversion of drug dealers and his condemnation of their actions as driven by greed for money and power underscores his moral stance on the issue. He believes that ending the production and trafficking of drugs is a moral duty for society.
- Pope Francis has also addressed the broader social and economic factors contributing to drug trafficking, calling for the business sector to avoid complicity with mafia organizations and to engage in social commitments that support recovery and prevention efforts.
