Statement on the Passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis

Read the Statement in Italian

It is with profound sorrow that we acknowledge the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis.

“Pope Francis dedicated his life to uplifting the marginalized and advocating for the world’s most vulnerable populations. He reminded us that “hope” is an action,” said Alvaro Lario, President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development of the United Nations.

Pope Francis consistently championed the cause of the rural poor, recognizing their indispensable role in global food security and sustainable development. He often highlighted the paradox that those who produce food are the ones who suffer from hunger, calling for urgent action to support smallholder farmers and rural communities. “IFAD appreciates him as a champion of Indigenous People and an advocate for food security, sustainable agriculture, and the fight against hunger and inequality. He truly cared about the most vulnerable populations,” added Lario.

Under his leadership, the Holy See played an active role in international diplomacy, advocating for social justice, economic equity, and environmental stewardship. As an Observer State at the United Nations and its specialized agencies—including IFAD—the Holy See has been a strong voice in policy discussions on rural development and global food systems.

Pope Francis personally addressed IFAD’s Governing Council in 2019, emphasizing the need for concrete and transformative solutions to rural poverty. His Holiness highlighted the importance of rural development and the essential role played by IFAD in ending hunger and poverty. "None of this will be possible without achieving rural development, a development that has been talked about for a long time but has not fully materialized," he said.

In recent statements Pope Francis called for a new international financial architecture based on justice and solidarity, echoing Saint John Paul II's appeals for debt cancellation previously. This is critical because many countries spend more on debt repayments than on essential services like agriculture, health and education, undermining their ability to invest in resilient food systems and local economies.

IFAD remains committed to honouring Pope Francis’ vision to build a more just and compassionate world, working towards a future where rural communities have the opportunities and support, they need to thrive.

Our thoughts are with the global community in mourning this extraordinary leader.