On Tuesday, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher addressed various sessions of the Human Rights Council, addressing critical issues such as the death penalty, global debt significance, and the multifaceted challenges facing human rights today. He presented the Holy See’s strong opposition to the death penalty, declaring it “inadmissible” as it undermines human dignity and the possibility of personal redemption, echoing Pope Francis’ call for mercy during the Jubilee Year. The archbishop asserted that no debt legitimises the State’s claim over a life.
In a high-level panel discussing global debt, Gallagher highlighted the dire consequences of debt on developing nations, where extensive funds are often directed towards servicing debts rather than critical services like education and healthcare. He noted that with global public debt reaching $97 trillion, developing countries are caught in a cycle of economic injustice that prioritises financial obligations over the welfare of their citizens. Gallagher also touched upon ecological debt, asserting wealthier nations must compensate poorer ones for the exploitation of their resources.
Emphasising the right to life within the wider spectrum of human rights, Gallagher condemned threats to human dignity, including the death penalty and inadequate support for vulnerable populations. He called for an acknowledgment of life, family, and motherhood as fundamental values, urging a remembrance of women’s contributions in the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Beijing Conference. Furthermore, he insisted that international financial systems must account for the right to development for poorer nations.
In his final remarks, Gallagher appealed for a collective commitment from the global community towards meaningful systemic change, urging policymakers to move away from punitive measures like capital punishment and to pursue equitable solutions to the debt crisis. He stated that the Holy See prioritises human dignity above profit in economic considerations. He concluded by invoking the Jubilee tradition of debt cancellation as a means to foster solidarity, justice, and peace, calling for an innovative, humane financial architecture.
“The gravity of our current situation demands immediate action” – Vatican News.
Archbishop Gallagher spoke at the Human Rights Council about the inadmissibility of the death penalty, advocating for global debt justice and human rights preservation. He emphasised the need for equitable financial practices that prioritise human dignity over profit while addressing challenges facing vulnerable populations, including refugees. His appeals embody a strong commitment to transformative actions in addressing systemic issues affecting the most disadvantaged nations.
Archbishop Gallagher’s addresses emphasised the importance of human dignity, advocating for the abolishment of the death penalty, fair debt practices, and recognising the rights of all individuals, including migrants. His call for an international financial system centred around equity and justice highlights the pressing need for transformative action in the face of global challenges, echoing Pope Francis’ visions of mercy and compassion. Gallagher’s insights remind us that every economic decision must regard the value of human life and dignity, urging a collective commitment to justice and solidarity among nations.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
