Pope Leo XIV Advocates for Universal Healthcare and Social Equality in Uruguay

In Montevideo, Pope Leo XIV used his recent health challenges as a platform to call for universal healthcare, greater social equality, and a shift in societal values. Addressing Uruguay’s leaders, he emphasized the importance of not equating a person’s worth with their productivity or wealth.

The Pope’s recent experience with lung cancer, including surgery to remove a tumor, inspired his impassioned message. He expressed gratitude for the care he received and acknowledged the struggles of those who cannot access timely diagnosis or treatment. ‘Ensuring that healthcare is accessible to everyone, regardless of their resources, is a duty that confronts every society,’ he stated.

Uruguay marks the beginning of a 12-day journey that will also take Pope Leo XIV to Argentina and Peru. This trip is the longest international itinerary of his pontificate, covering 19,000 travel miles and featuring 36 speeches. Although a medical team accompanies the Pope, as is customary, no special precautions are being taken. The Vatican notes that the Pope, at 71, is in good health.

This visit represents the Pope’s first return to a region that has strongly influenced him, having worked as an Augustinian missionary and bishop in Peru. He holds citizenship in both the United States and Peru.

During his speech, Pope Leo XIV called for protection of the vulnerable and equitable distribution of economic growth. While commending Uruguay for its democratic stability, he asserted that true success is shown in upholding human dignity.

Tackling the issue of abortion, legalized in Uruguay in 2012, the Pope defended children’s rights, including the unborn. ‘Their absolute dependence on their mother does not diminish their dignity,’ he remarked. He advocated for children’s access to quality education and pathways to independence.

Highlighting concerns about technology and artificial intelligence, Pope Leo XIV warned against them replacing human workers, urging that they should serve humanity.

The Pope plans to continue to Argentina and Peru where he will discuss topics such as the environment, political instability, and arms tracking. Meetings with clerical abuse survivors are also scheduled, but details remain undisclosed.