Pope Francis delivered a speech at a conference addressing Italy and Europe’s demographic crisis, criticizing both the weapons and contraceptive industries for their roles in destroying or preventing life.

He highlighted Europe’s stagnant fertility rate, emphasizing Italy’s record-low birth rate in 2023, despite government efforts to reverse the trend.

The Pope condemned the profitability of arms factories and contraceptives, noting their impact on the future.

He reiterated the Catholic Church’s stance against artificial birth control while advocating for responsible parenthood, Reuters reported.

Francis emphasized the importance of children for hope in society, urging governments to implement policies supporting families and offering hope to young people amid challenges like declining birth rates, conflicts, pandemics, and climate change.

His remarks were welcomed by conservative Catholic groups, acknowledging the economic interests tied to contraceptives.

Written by B.C. Begley