The Secretary for the Holy See’s Relations with States and International Organizations recently delivered a powerful address at the 58th Regular Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva.
By Linda Bordoni
Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher addressed various Human Rights Council Sessions, focusing on critical themes such as the death penalty, global debt justice, and broader human rights challenges in today’s geopolitical landscape.
The Inadmissibility of the Death Penalty
The Secretary reiterated the Holy See’s firm stance against the death penalty, emphasizing that it violates the inviolability and dignity of every individual. He highlighted the importance of modern judicial systems finding alternative ways to safeguard society without resorting to capital punishment, which eliminates the possibility of redemption and rehabilitation.
He recalled Pope Francis’ call for acts of mercy, including commuting sentences, underscoring that no authority has the right to take another person’s life.
Debt Justice as a Moral Imperative
During a high-level panel on global debt, Archbishop Gallagher shed light on the disproportionate burden faced by developing nations. He pointed out that a significant portion of the world’s population resides in countries where debt servicing outweighs spending on essential services like healthcare and education.
With global public debt soaring, developing countries struggle to prioritize sustainable development while servicing external debts, often at the expense of their citizens’ well-being. The Archbishop emphasized the need for economic justice that prioritizes human dignity over financial gains, drawing attention to the concept of “ecological debt” that exacerbates global inequalities.
Human Rights and Global Challenges
Archbishop Gallagher placed the right to life at the core of human rights discussions, condemning all threats to human dignity, from the death penalty to inadequate support for vulnerable populations. He stressed the importance of valuing life, family, and motherhood, especially in light of the upcoming Beijing Conference’s 30th anniversary.
The Archbishop addressed the plight of migrants and refugees, advocating for their dignified treatment and access to safe, legal pathways. He highlighted Pope Francis’ unwavering support for displaced persons, emphasizing their inherent dignity and potential contributions to society.
Call for Renewed Commitment
In conclusion, Archbishop Gallagher urged the international community to prioritize systemic change, rejecting punitive measures like the death penalty and seeking fair solutions to the global debt crisis. He emphasized the need for a human-centered international financial system that upholds the dignity of all individuals.
As we navigate the complexities of our current reality, Archbishop Gallagher’s call for ambitious debt relief and a new financial architecture grounded in equity, justice, and solidarity resonates as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and just world.
