Pope Leo XIV: The death penalty is inadmissible and violates human dignity

Pope Leo XIV reiterated his opposition to the death penalty on Saturday, October 10, marking the World Day Against the Death Penalty.

In a social media post, the Pontiff stressed that capital punishment violates human dignity and the right to life, arguing that justice and public safety can be ensured without resorting to executions.

“The death penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person,” Pope Leo XIV stated.

“The common good can be safeguarded and the requirements of justice can be met without recourse to capital punishment,” he added.

The Pope also emphasized that modern prison systems can protect society while allowing offenders the possibility of rehabilitation and redemption.

“Effective systems of detention have been developed that protect citizens while at the same time do not completely deprive those who are guilty of the possibility of redemption,” he wrote.

The death penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person. The common good can be safeguarded and the requirements of justice can be met without recourse to capital punishment: effective systems of detention…