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Pope Francis has strongly criticized attempts to introduce abortion rights through international agreements, characterizing such efforts as a form of ideological colonization during his annual diplomatic corps address.

The pontiff expressed concern over what he sees as the manipulation of multilateral documents and human rights treaties to promote controversial agendas, including abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. According to Francis, these attempts disregard cultural traditions and religious connections, effectively imposing foreign ideologies on various populations.

In his address, Francis emphasized his opposition to the concept of abortion as a human right, stating that it contradicts fundamental human rights, particularly the right to life. He stressed the importance of protecting all human life from its earliest stages through natural death, affirming that no child should be considered unwanted and no elderly or ill person should be denied hope.

The Pope warned that while such changes might appear progressive, they actually represent a regression. He cautioned that this mindset, while claiming to move beyond historical darkness, instead promotes a cancel culture that leaves no room for differing viewpoints and prioritizes individual rights over collective responsibilities, especially regarding society’s most vulnerable members.

Just days before his diplomatic address, Francis had called for greater protection of life in all its forms, from unborn children to the elderly and suffering. He urged a strong commitment to upholding human dignity throughout all life stages, encouraging people to value their own lives while maintaining hope for the future.

The pontiff has previously used strong language to condemn abortion practices, comparing them to mafia-like behavior and likening the procedure to hiring an assassin. In a recent development, he criticized Belgium’s abortion legislation as “homicidal” and has moved forward with the beatification process for Belgium’s King Baudouin, who notably stepped down from his throne temporarily rather than approve abortion legislation.