Pope Francis voiced concerns about the state of democracy and issued a warning against populism during his visit to Trieste, Italy. Addressing an annual convention on social affairs within the Roman Catholic Church, the Pope highlighted the exclusion of many individuals from the democratic process, particularly emphasizing the plight of the underprivileged and vulnerable.

Democracy in Crisis

The Pontiff remarked on the precarious condition of democracy in the contemporary world, decrying the effects of polarization and partisanship. He drew parallels between seductive ideologies and the tale of the Pied Piper of Hamelin, cautioning against the self-destructive nature of succumbing to such beliefs.

While acknowledging a widespread crisis of democracy across various nations, the Pope refrained from citing specific examples. The Catholic bishops in several countries also raised concerns over the surge of nationalism and populism ahead of recent European Parliament elections.

Fostering Common Good

Highlighting the importance of moving away from divisive tendencies that lead to impoverishment, Pope Francis emphasized the need to combat "self-referential power" and advocate for the common good. He urged against falling for simplistic solutions and condemned political corruption and illegality.

Concerned by declining voter turnout in elections, the Pope stressed the significance of instilling democratic values in children and warned against the cancer of democracy that is indifference.

Pope Francis concluded his visit with a mass in front of a large congregation before returning to the Vatican. He remains an active figure, preparing for an extensive journey in September that will take him across several countries.