UN Chief Pays Tribute to Pope Francis, Hails Him as a Messenger of Hope and Humanity
The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has joined the global outpouring of grief following the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, describing him as “a messenger of hope, humility and humanity.”
In a heartfelt tribute, Mr. Guterres hailed the late Pope as a “transcendent voice for peace, human dignity and social justice,” adding that he leaves behind a powerful legacy rooted in faith, service, and compassion — especially for the marginalized and victims of conflict.
“Pope Francis was a man of faith for all faiths — working with people of all beliefs and backgrounds to light a path forward,” the Secretary-General said, emphasizing the Pontiff’s lifelong dedication to unity and moral leadership.
Recalling the Pope’s historic 2015 address to the United Nations, Mr. Guterres highlighted the Pontiff’s support for the UN’s vision of a “united human family.” He noted that the late Pope’s influence reached far beyond the spiritual realm, shaping key global conversations on peacebuilding, human rights, and environmental stewardship.
Among his many contributions, Pope Francis’ landmark encyclical, Laudato Si, was cited as a major catalyst in galvanizing worldwide action on climate change, ultimately contributing to the success of the Paris Agreement.
“Pope Francis understood that protecting our common home is, at heart, a deeply moral mission and responsibility that belongs to every person,” the UN Chief noted.
He also referenced one of the Pontiff’s most memorable quotes: “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 people who recognize the other as a ‘you’ and themselves as part of an ‘us.’”
Describing Pope Francis as a source of moral clarity in a divided world, Mr. Guterres called on global citizens to emulate his example of unity, humility, and understanding.
“I offer my deepest condolences to Catholics and all those around the world inspired by the extraordinary life and example of Pope Francis,” he concluded.
