The Pope noted that freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed by “the certainty of language and the fact that every term is anchored in the truth.” A troubling phenomenon, he said, particularly in the West, is the situation in which “the space for genuine freedom of expression is rapidly shrinking.” Pope Leo XIV made these remarks in an address to members of the Diplomatic Corps on the occasion of the exchange of New Year greetings.
A warning against anti-human tendencies
The Pope further observed that the so-called “new language” (in an Orwellian-style), in its pursuit of ever-greater inclusivity, definitively excludes those who do not submit to the ideologies driving it. This phenomenon leads to additional consequences that strike at fundamental human rights, beginning with freedom of conscience.
“Conscientious objection is not rebellion, but an act of fidelity to oneself. At this moment in history, freedom of conscience seems increasingly to be questioned by states, even those that claim to be based on democracy and human rights. This freedom, however, establishes a balance between the collective interest and individual dignity. It also emphasizes that a truly free society does not impose uniformity but protects the diversity of consciences, preventing authoritarian tendencies and promoting an ethical dialogue that enriches the social fabric,”
Pope Leo XIV stated.
During the meeting with representatives of the Diplomatic Corps, it was noted that the persecution of Christians is currently one of the most widespread human rights crises. It affects more than 380 million believers worldwide.
Because of their faith, Christians experience discrimination, violence, and oppression. In 2025, the situation worsened due to ongoing conflicts, authoritarian governments, and religious extremism. “Sadly, all of this demonstrates that religious freedom is considered in many contexts more as a “privilege” or concession than a fundamental human right,” the Pope added.
The Pope’s voice was also significant on the issue of protecting human life.
“In light of this profound vision of life as a gift to be cherished, and of the family as its responsible guardian, we categorically reject any practice that denies or exploits the origin of life and its development. Among these is abortion, which cuts short a growing life and refuses to welcome the gift of life. In this regard, the Holy See expresses deep concern about projects aimed at financing cross-border mobility for the purpose of accessing the so-called “right to safe abortion.” It also considers it deplorable that public resources are allocated to suppress life, rather than being invested to support mothers and families. The primary objective must remain the protection of every unborn child and the effective and concrete support of every woman so that she is able to welcome life,”
Pope Leo XIV appealed.