Pope Leo urges Europe to defend multilateralism as global order crumbles

Pope Leo XIV has praised multilateralism as “the best defence against the desire for dominance” in a speech in the French city of Metz.

The pontiff lamented a world marked by conflict, from war and hunger to deteriorating personal relations, describing an “increasingly uncivilised” climate. He also criticised the “lies and deception” he said were fuelling growing distrust between citizens and governments.

Speaking in Schuman’s hometown, a city closely associated with European reconciliation, Leo said Europe could break this vicious cycle by reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law and dialogue.

"Europe can break this cycle by upholding the principle of respect for others, which it has successfully cultivated and maintained, having demonstrably shown over the past eighty years that it is possible to express divergent opinions, demands, and interests through dialogue rather than confrontation," he said.