Pope Leo Calls for Prayers for Victims of War and the People of Myanmar
Pope Leo XIV has once again appealed for peace and compassion for those suffering amid the world’s many wars, with a special prayer for the people of Myanmar, who continue to endure one of the most severe humanitarian crises of the century.
Speaking at the conclusion of his General Audience on Wednesday, the Pope urged the faithful to unite in prayer for all those living through violence and conflict. “I invite you to join me in prayer for all who are tried by the violence of war in different parts of the world,” he said, his voice filled with concern for the countless lives disrupted by ongoing hostilities.
The Holy Father offered a particular prayer for Myanmar, calling on the international community not to abandon its people. “Let us not forget the Burmese people,” he said, “and may humanitarian aid reach all those who suffer.”
The Pope’s appeal comes as Myanmar continues to face widespread destruction and suffering nearly five years after its military seized power in a coup that ousted the democratically elected government. Since 2021, civil war has devastated large parts of the country, leaving thousands dead and more than three million displaced from their homes. Entire villages have been reduced to rubble, with reports of airstrikes, arrests, and mass violence against civilians.
The United Nations estimates that more than half of Myanmar’s population now requires humanitarian assistance, with millions lacking access to food, medicine, and shelter. What began as peaceful protests against the coup has evolved into an armed resistance involving pro-democracy fighters and ethnic armed groups confronting the military junta.
The tragedy, however, has deeper roots. Years before the coup, Myanmar had already been facing international condemnation for its treatment of the Rohingya Muslim minority. In 2017, the military launched a brutal campaign in Rakhine State, marked by killings, sexual violence, torture, and the destruction of entire communities. A UN investigation later concluded that the campaign was carried out with genocidal intent.
By early 2018, more than 700,000 Rohingya refugees had fled to neighboring Bangladesh, while those who remained in Myanmar continued to face persecution, restrictions on movement, and denial of citizenship. These atrocities were perpetrated by the same military leaders who later overthrew the government in 2021.
Today, those same generals led by Min Aung Hlaing have extended their campaign of terror against the entire population, using the same tactics once deployed against the Rohingya. Villages, churches, and schools have been destroyed, and civilians of every ethnicity and faith have suffered under their rule.
Through his words and prayers, Pope Leo reminded the world that peace must begin with remembrance and compassion. “Let us not turn our eyes away from those who suffer,” he said, reaffirming the Church’s solidarity with the people of Myanmar and all victims of war who continue to cry out for justice and hope.
