Hope, lung of the Earth
Dear friends: This issue of the newsletter of the General Commission for Justice and Peace in Spain highlights World Day of the Poor 2025, whose motto – 'You are my hope' – coincides with Pope Leo XIV's first apostolic exhortation, Dilexi te. Both calls insist on the centrality of poor people in the life of the Church and on the need for effective policies to combat the many forms of exclusion. In the same vein, the FOESSA 2025 Report once again calls for an honest look at the inequalities in our country, reminding us that child poverty, precariousness and social fragility remain open wounds.
The bulletin also includes a report on the Fifth World Meeting of Popular Movements, held in Rome. At the meeting, Pope Leo XIV reiterated his commitment to those who suffer oppression, precariousness or violence, and encouraged the continued building of processes of justice and peace from below, with a hope that mobilises and transforms.
At an international level, Justice and Peace Europe held its General Assembly and International Seminar in Vilnius, reflecting on the challenges to peace in a context of growing tension between Europe and Russia. The meeting reaffirmed the need for a coherent European Peace Strategy and greater ecclesial involvement in reconciliation. ExCo positions were also renewed and the next dates for European work were scheduled.
The newsletter also covers the activities of the PararLaGuerra movement, of which we have been a part since 2023. Two years on, we continue to denounce the serious violations of rights in Gaza and the West Bank, promoting mobilisations and awareness-raising actions. With more than 135 member organisations, we maintain our common slogan: No to genocide. For a just peace. A definitive ceasefire.
On 7 October, Church for Decent Work joined the Day for Decent Work, reminding us that it is a right. The manifesto highlighted the harsh conditions faced by migrants and their significant contribution to the country's economic growth.
In terms of human rights, the results of the Universal Periodic Review of Spain are presented, with recommendations on work to combat discrimination, protect children, guarantee rights in migration and asylum, combat gender violence and improve social rights. Participation in European Anti-Trafficking Day is also highlighted, focusing on a growing phenomenon that requires international cooperation, prevention and comprehensive support.
In socio-environmental terms, an analysis is provided of COP30 held in Belém, marked by progress in adaptation, climate justice and forest protection, but without a firm commitment to abandon fossil fuels. From a critical and hopeful perspective, the need to accelerate the just transition and strengthen global action is emphasised.
We encourage you to read the full newsletter and to continue to accompany, through shared responsibility and commitment, the active hope that animates our common mission in favour of human rights, justice and peace.
Technical Secretariat. Justice and Peace of Spain