Pope Leo XIV delivered a speech to Spain's parliament on Monday, urging lawmakers to respect the rights of migrants and adhere to international law [1].

The address marks the first time a pope has spoken to the Congress of Deputies [2]. The event highlights the Vatican's effort to influence European migration policy and the legal frameworks governing displaced populations during a period of heightened geopolitical tension.

Speaking in Madrid, the pontiff said the world is facing a profound global crisis [1]. He said this instability is driven by escalating conflict, deepening polarization, and a systemic disregard for human rights [1].

Leo XIV called for a renewed commitment to the protection of migrants, emphasizing that international law must be upheld to prevent further humanitarian decline [2]. He said the current state of global instability is linked to a failure of nations to protect the most vulnerable populations.

The Spanish lawmakers responded to the address with a standing ovation that lasted approximately seven minutes [3]. This reception followed the conclusion of the speech on June 8, 2026 [1].

The visit to the Congress of Deputies is a rare diplomatic occurrence, signaling a high level of cooperation between the Holy See and the Spanish government. By addressing the legislative body directly, the pope sought to move the conversation on migration from religious appeal to legal obligation [2].

“The pontiff warned that the world is facing a profound global crisis.”

This historic first address to the Spanish parliament signifies a strategic shift by the papacy to engage directly with legislative bodies on migration. By framing the treatment of migrants as a matter of international law rather than solely a moral or religious duty, Pope Leo XIV is attempting to hold European governments accountable to legal standards during a time of extreme political polarization.