World Immigration News

Cardinal Zuppi speaks on immigration

Release Date: 2025-11-18
Media: The Catholic Herald
Summary: Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, Archbishop of Bologna and President of the Italian Bishops’ Conference, warned that Italy is at risk of irreversible decline unless it embraces immigration as an essential part of national life. He noted that with low birth rates and an aging population, industries in northern regions such as Emilia-Romagna already struggle to function without foreign workers.

Zuppi emphasized that immigration is necessary because many businesses cannot operate without migrant labor. However, he also cautioned against viewing migrants merely as a source of labor. Citing Pope Benedict XVI, he warned that economic systems driven solely by profit can degrade human dignity and create exploitation, especially when labor protections are weak.

He argued that the goal should be “integral inclusion,” ensuring migrants can rebuild their lives and are treated as full persons rather than interchangeable workers. He also referred to Benedict XVI’s teaching on the “right not to emigrate,” stressing that societies must address the root causes that force people to leave their home countries, rather than accepting migrants only when labor shortages arise.

In recent years, Zuppi and the Italian Bishops’ Conference have consistently framed immigration as both unavoidable and a moral responsibility. While recognizing Italy’s severe demographic and economic challenges, they urge that migration be approached not as a short-term remedy but as a matter of human dignity grounded in ethical principles.
Tags: Italy

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