• Pope Leo XIV calls for the release of journalists jailed for seeking the truth.
• The pontiff urges the media to reject divisive language and promote peace.
• He emphasizes the importance of free speech as a "precious gift."
• Over 560 journalists are currently imprisoned globally, according to various sources.
• Leo XIV's address highlights the role of communication in fostering unity and justice.

Pope Leo XIV, in his inaugural address to the media on May 12, emphasized the urgent need to release journalists imprisoned for “seeking and reporting the truth.” He declared that their suffering "challenges the conscience of nations and the international community," highlighting the necessity of safeguarding the “precious gift of free speech and of the press,” which he referred to multiple times during the event, according to SCMP, Le Monde, and HuffPost.

In addressing a gathering of over 6,000 journalists at the Vatican’s Paul VI audience hall, Pope Leo cautioned against the "war of words and images" and called for using communication as a tool for peace. “We must say ‘no’ to the war of words and images. We must reject the paradigm of war,” he urged, reinforcing his commitment to unity and peaceful dialogue in media. His statements were supported by multiple sources, including NPR, Reuters, and New York Times.

Pope Leo also acknowledged the crucial role that journalists play in shedding light on injustices and poverty, and reiterated solidarity with those in prison, inspired by the growing number of jailed journalists worldwide, which as reported includes 361 according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. He stressed that “only informed individuals can make free choices,” urging journalists to act responsibly in their professional duties, especially regarding emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, as noted by sources including Africanews and Los Angeles Times.

Moreover, Leo highlighted the significant responsibilities of journalists, urging them to reject terms that encourage division, fanaticism, and hatred. “Let us disarm communication of all prejudice and resentment,” he implored, indicating that the path to peace lies within the way we communicate with each other. His message resonated widely, as seen in coverage from CBS News and BBC, who reported similar affirmations of his plea for unity and justice through responsible journalism.