Pope criticizes global indifference to migrants during visit to former Canary Islands dock known for refugee suffering.
Pope Leo XIV made a significant visit to Arguineguín, a port in the Canary Islands once criticized for its inadequate treatment of migrants, as part of his ongoing weeklong trip to Spain. His visit arrives as he emphasizes the importance of upholding the dignity and rights of migrants in Europe, particularly in the context of the ongoing migration crisis.
The Canaries have long functioned as a crucial entry point for migrants making the treacherous journey from West Africa to Europe. Historically, the area has witnessed a tragic loss of life; experts note that the Atlantic crossing is now recognized as one of the deadliest migration routes. In 2024, migrant arrivals peaked at nearly 47,000, though numbers have substantially decreased since then. Recently, arrivals fell to just over 3,000 in early 2026, as the EU and Spain reached agreements with several West African nations to manage the flow of migrants.
Upon his arrival in Arguineguín, Pope Leo noted the deteriorating conditions that many migrants faced at the port, previously labeled the “dock of shame” in 2020. During his visit, he paid tribute to the lives lost at sea by throwing a bouquet of flowers into the ocean, echoing a similar gesture made by Pope Francis in 2013 during his visit to Lampedusa, Italy.
During his address, Leo called for a collective acknowledgment of migrant dignity, challenging European leaders to recognize the humanity in those seeking refuge. He denounced the indifference that has characterized global attitudes towards migrants while advocating for action from both countries of origin and transit nations to prevent the forced migration that leads so many to perilous journeys.
In a deeply poignant moment, Leo spoke directly to women who have been victims of human trafficking, emphasizing their inherent worth and the need for societal recognition of their struggles. He reiterated a call for Europe to resist normalizing the tragic loss of life along its borders.
Acknowledging a reported 6,600 deaths on the Atlantic route since 2014, with additional figures suggesting that more than 25,000 individuals are either dead or missing while attempting to reach the Canary Islands, Leo implored nations to cultivate environments where people do not feel compelled to leave their homes.
This visit aligns with Pope Leo’s commitment to issues surrounding migration, following in the footsteps of Francis, who has consistently spotlighted the experiences of refugees and migrants. Leo’s ongoing advocacy highlights the necessity for a compassionate response to the migrant crisis and reinforces the call for a collective humanitarian approach. As he prepares for his upcoming Independence Day visit to Lampedusa, his message resonates with the urgency to prioritize human life in the face of growing indifference.
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