Pope Leo XIV Declines Comment on Jimmy Lai Case, Reaffirms Call for Peace
Pope Leo XIV said he could not comment on the imprisonment of Catholic media founder Jimmy Lai during a brief exchange with reporters outside the papal villa at Castel Gandolfo on 3 March. The encounter marked the first time the pontiff has taken questions from the press since late December 2025.
Jimmy Lai, founder of the pro democracy newspaper Apple Daily, was sentenced on 9 February to 20 years in prison after being convicted in December on charges that Chinese authorities say violated national security laws. Supporters of Lai have described the proceedings as politically motivated and have raised concerns about press freedom and human rights.
When asked directly about Lai’s imprisonment, Pope Leo XIV responded that he could not comment on the case. The Holy See maintains a delicate diplomatic relationship with the government of the People’s Republic of China, including a provisional agreement concerning the appointment of bishops.
Although the pope has not publicly addressed Lai’s situation in detail, he has spoken in broader terms about imprisoned journalists and the importance of free expression. In previous remarks, he emphasized that journalists who report on war and injustice often do so at great personal risk. He described them as witnesses who defend human dignity, justice, and the right of people to be informed. He noted that only informed individuals can make free choices and that the suffering of imprisoned journalists challenges the conscience of nations and the international community.
Pope Leo XIV met with Lai’s wife and daughter in October 2025, though he has not publicly elaborated on the meeting. International attention to the case has continued, including statements from political leaders abroad calling for Lai’s release.
During his brief appearance at Castel Gandolfo, the pope also renewed his appeal for peace and dialogue. He urged prayers for less hatred and more peace and encouraged authentic dialogue as a path forward in a world marked by rising tensions and conflict. The pontiff has made it customary to spend Tuesdays at the country residence, occasionally greeting journalists before returning to the Vatican.
Observers note that the Holy See often navigates sensitive geopolitical situations with caution, especially where diplomatic channels remain active. The provisional agreement between the Vatican and China regarding episcopal appointments remains a key element of that relationship, and the Vatican has sought to balance pastoral concern with diplomatic engagement.
The pope did not take additional questions beyond the inquiry concerning Jimmy Lai. His remarks nevertheless highlighted the Church’s ongoing emphasis on peace, human dignity, and the protection of fundamental freedoms, even as specific cases may require diplomatic restraint.
