Pope Francis to Visit Canary Islands to Highlight Atlantic Migration Crisis

Plans for the Pope’s upcoming visit to the Canary Islands are taking shape, with the trip set to highlight the dangers of the Atlantic migration route. The visit follows an invitation from Canary Islands President Fernando Clavijo, as church leaders seek to bring international attention to what they describe as one of the world’s most perilous journeys.

Church representatives have highlighted the islands' difficult socioeconomic climate, noting that 25.5% of the local population faces social exclusion. Cayi Suárez, head of Caritas in Gran Canaria, explained that this poverty coincides with the ongoing arrival of migrants. The organization is now shifting its focus from emergency aid to long-term labor integration, while also addressing the severe physical and mental health struggles faced by those who survive the crossing.

Bishops José Mazuelos and Eloy Santiago have described the act of welcoming migrants as an ethical duty. The Bishop of Tenerife pointed to the immense pressure on local infrastructure, citing the La Restinga pier in El Hierro, which saw 25,000 arrivals last year on an island with only 9,000 residents. Bishop Mazuelos emphasized the need to dismantle human trafficking networks and create legal pathways for migration, suggesting that newcomers could help fill labor shortages in sectors like hospitality and caregiving.

Regarding the visit’s funding, the regional government is contributing one million euros, with the Cabildo of Tenerife adding another half-million. Church officials noted that these costs are comparable to other public cultural spending and stressed that no tickets will be sold for the event. They have pledged to publish a full financial report after the visit, with any remaining funds going toward social projects, such as a new day center for the homeless in La Laguna.

The Church also shared updates on its support programs. Caritas has assisted over 1,100 people in Gran Canaria this year, noting that half of the migrants they support lack legal status. Through "hospitality corridors," the organization has also helped fifty young people who have aged out of the foster care system avoid homelessness and exploitation. With 1,200 volunteers ready, the Church hopes the Pope’s visit will shine a light on the struggles of those seeking a better life after crossing the Atlantic.