President Boland meets Pope Leo XIV: A mission to Rome focused on social justice and inclusion

On a mission to Rome and the Vatican City, European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) President Séamus Boland had a substantive private audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Apostolic Palace. The meeting focused on areas of shared concern for President Boland and Pope Leo XIV, including the eradication of poverty, defending democracy, and protecting the most vulnerable in society.

On tackling poverty, the President praised Pope Leo XIV for his moral leadership and tireless advocacy. "We are grateful to Pope Leo for using his powerful voice to spread a message of inclusion and protecting the most marginalized. The EU must listen, and we all must do better."

The dialogue also highlighted the plight of younger generations, who, President Boland noted, have borne lasting scars from the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic and the relentless pressures of social media. He warmly welcomed the Vatican’s work emphasising mental health ministry, underscoring that addressing youth mental health and fostering their civic participation are vital to Europe's future resilience.

On migrants and refugees, President Boland strongly echoed Pope Leo's recent calls for compassion, reiterating the EESC’s commitment to coordinated, humane migration policies that uphold dignity and the rule of law.

The meeting was also an opportunity to highlight the pivotal role of civil society in knitting together individuals and communities, building bridges and combating prejudice. "Faith-based organizations, charities, community groups, and social partners are the fabric of our societies," President Boland affirmed.

"As the voice of Europe’s organised civil society, the EESC will continue to lead in shaping policies that put people and communities first – ensuring that hope, fairness and solidarity remain at the heart of the European project," he added.

During the mission to Rome and ahead of the audience with Pope Leo XIV, President Boland also held a positive meeting with Ambassador Martin Selmayr, Head of the EU Delegation to the Holy See, Sovereign Order of Malta, UN Organisations in Rome and the Republic of San Marino. This was an important exchange to gain further understanding of EU relations with the Holy See and discuss opportunities to advance shared values and concrete action.

President Boland also met with Frances Collins, Irish Ambassador to the Holy See, to gain her insights and discuss the vital role of dialogue between institutions and civil society.