Pope Francis: Women are treated like rubbish

Vatican City - Every month, the Pope's prayer intentions on different topics are published as a video. In April, Francis has clear words on the treatment of women – and calls for a new way of dealing with them.

Published on 03.04.2024 at 10:41 –

Pope Francis has sharply criticised the treatment of women in many parts of the world. They are treated like rubbish and denied access to education or business start-ups, the 87-year-old said in a video published on Tuesday. He also denounced genital mutilation and dress codes for women and girls. They are exploited and marginalised, he said.

"Let us not take away the voice of all these abused women," said the Pope's appeal. Governments must commit to eliminating discriminatory laws all over the world and stand up for the guaranteed human rights of women. "Let us respect women," Francis demanded. "If we don't do this, our society will not develop."

The video is the Pope's prayer intention for the month of April. The Vatican Foundation "Pope's Prayer Network" produces the contributions monthly on changing topics. (KNA)