Bogoslovska smotra, Vol. 95 No. 5, 2025.
Review article
https://doi.org/10.53745/bs.95.5.6
Migration and State Borders in the Encyclical of Pope Francis
Stanislav Šota
orcid.org/0000-0002-6979-4406
; Catholic Faculty of Theology in Đakovo, University of Josip Juraj Stossmayer in Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
Abstract
In the encyclical Fratelli tutti on fraternity and social friendship, Pope Francis expresses his views on migrants and state borders. Because of his concern for migrants and the need for open state borders, it can be safely said that he is the Pope of migrants. Aware that strong migration always leaves a lasting mark and profoundly changes the culture of a place or region, he calls on Christians and all people of goodwill to welcome migrants with open hearts and open arms, providing them with opportunities for new growth and a better life. The common good and the dignity of every person must have a central role in social ethics and social and political love. Accepting, protecting, promoting, and integrating migrants means understanding that every person is valuable, at all times and in all circumstances. All structures, both ecclesiastical and political, should respond to the globalization of migration with a globalization of cooperation, acceptance, and open borders.
Keywords
Fratelli tutti; Pope Francis; immigrants; borders; social friendship and fraternity
Hrčak ID:
346358
URI
Publication date:
16.4.2026.
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