United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed profound sorrow following the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday in Vatican City at the age of 88.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected to the papacy in March 2013. He made history as the first pontiff from the Americas and quickly became known as a powerful advocate for social justice, compassion, and equality.
Mr. Guterres called him “a messenger of hope, humility and humanity,” highlighting his enduring influence on global affairs and moral leadership.
A Legacy of Faith and Compassion
“Pope Francis was a transcendent voice for peace, human dignity, and social justice,” said the Secretary-General in a tribute. “He leaves behind a legacy grounded in faith, service, and compassion for those most in need — particularly those marginalized or suffering in times of conflict.”
Describing him as “a man of faith for all faiths,” Guterres emphasized the Pope’s dedication to fostering interreligious dialogue and unity across cultures and beliefs. He noted the deep alignment between the Pope’s values and the ideals of the United Nations, especially during their many encounters over the past decade.
Championing the Environment
Guterres also recalled Pope Francis’ stirring address to the UN General Assembly in 2015, where he invoked the vision of a “united human family.” Among his influential contributions was the 2015 encyclical Laudato Si, a passionate call to address the climate crisis. This pivotal document helped galvanize international momentum towards achieving the Paris Agreement on climate change.
“Pope Francis recognized that caring for our common home is a moral obligation shared by all humanity,” Guterres stated.
The pontiff once remarked: “The future of humankind isn’t exclusively in the hands of politicians, of great leaders, of big companies… It is, most of all, in the hands of those who recognize the other as a ‘you’ and themselves as part of an ‘us.’”
Guterres underscored that in a world marked by division and discord, Pope Francis’ example offers a path to greater unity and understanding.
A Voice for Global Change
Pope Francis’ 2015 appearance at the UN also marked the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Addressing world leaders, he called for strong action to protect the planet and end exclusion and poverty.
While acknowledging that the United Nations’ work could always be improved, he affirmed its critical role in promoting peace and building a better future for all. Even during the 2020 COVID-19 virtual General Assembly session, the Pope urged world leaders to reimagine systems that fuel inequality and injustice.
People Before Profit
An ardent supporter of the UN’s humanitarian mission, Pope Francis maintained close ties with its Rome-based agencies — the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Food Programme (WFP), and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
In a message to the 2021 FAO Conference, he warned of growing food insecurity worsened by the pandemic and stressed the need for a “circular economy” that ensures resources for all and promotes renewable energy.
“To recover from the crisis that devastates us, we must create an economy that serves humanity — one guided not by profit, but by the common good, ethical responsibility, and environmental stewardship,” the Pope wrote.
Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution
Pope Francis also played a vital role in supporting peace efforts in South Sudan. Amid escalating tensions and renewed military activity in parts of the country, he lent his influence to back UN-led diplomacy.
Just last week, the UN’s Special Representative in South Sudan, Nicholas Haysom, recognized the Pope’s partnership — alongside the African Union, IGAD, and other stakeholders — in striving to prevent the country from sliding back into civil war.
A Lasting Influence
Pope Francis’ enduring commitment to the poor, the planet, and peaceful coexistence inspired millions around the world. As Secretary-General Guterres concluded, “Our divided and discordant world will be a much better place if we adopt his example of unity and mutual understanding in our own lives.”
His leadership leaves behind a moral and spiritual legacy that will continue to light the way for generations to come.
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