Pope Leo XIV urged Argentina’s leaders to safeguard democracy and recognize the limits of political authority during an address in Buenos Aires on Sunday, November 8.
Speaking at Palacio Libertad after meeting President Javier Milei, the pope described public office as a responsibility to serve the whole community. He emphasized respect for law, listening to political opponents and seeking agreement across disagreements.
The address connected those democratic principles with everyday economic concerns. Leo called for opportunities to earn a living and said growth should reach disadvantaged people, including struggling households and the unemployed. He also supported private initiative.
His remarks addressed the country’s future as well as its immediate divisions. He emphasized education, vocational training, universities and research as ways to help young Argentinians build lives at home.
Leo also called for ethical responsibility in the use of artificial intelligence and cooperation among countries against organized crime and trafficking. He paid tribute to his Argentine predecessor, Pope Francis.
The visit is Argentina’s first by a pope since 1987. It brings the American-born leader of the Catholic Church to a country where Milei’s austerity program has drawn criticism over social-service cuts and pressure on household finances.
Leo did not explicitly name Milei’s austerity program in the speech. The appeal for economic inclusion and restrained authority should therefore be read as his stated message to public officials, rather than an announced verdict on a particular government policy.
The address was part of a three-country South American journey. The Vatican recorded the authorities’ meeting as beginning at 6:40 p.m. local time Sunday.
Sources: Vatican Press Office — November 8 Authorities’ Meeting and Address. Reuters — November 8 Argentina Visit and Political Context.