Leo XIV appeals to the media: "Say no to the war of words and images"

At his first audience with representatives of the international press, Pope Leo XIV appealed to the media: communication must be oriented toward the search for truth and dialogue. He also called for the protection of freedom of speech and freedom of the press.

At his first audience with the international press, Pope Leo XIV made an appeal for freedom of the press and freedom of expression.

"We must say no to the war of words and images. We must reject the paradigm of war," the Pontiff said.

According to him, communication should always be oriented toward truth-seeking, dialogue, and peace. The media should move away from "aggressive" language and competitive communication.

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The Pope was greeted with cheers and applause from journalists around the world. He joked in English: "They say it doesn't matter much if you clap at the beginning. If you're still awake at the end and want to applaud, thank you very much."

Regarding the reporting on the Church, he said: "Thank you, therefore, for your contribution to going beyond the stereotypes and clichés through which we often interpret Christian life and the life of the Church itself."

Leo XIV reaffirmed the Church's support for journalists imprisoned around the world and called for their release. "We call on everyone to protect the precious gift of freedom of speech and freedom of the press," the Pope emphasized. "Because only informed people can make free decisions."

On Thursday, the new pontiff became the first American to be elected pope. Yesterday, he called for global peace before more than 100,000 believers. From St. Peter's Basilica, he demanded: "Never again war! "

He called for a just peace in Ukraine and a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

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His inauguration ceremony is planned for next Sunday in St. Peter's Square. Numerous state guests are expected, including US Vice President JD Vance and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.