Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger | Diocese of Tucson website

Pope Francis has called on global business and government leaders to work together in promoting ethically sound models of globalization. In a message sent to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, the Pope questioned how it is possible that people are still suffering from hunger, exploitation, illiteracy, lack of medical care, and homelessness in today's world. He emphasized that globalization has a moral dimension that should influence economic, cultural, political, and religious discussions.

The Pope's message was published by the Vatican and addressed to Klaus Schwab, the chairperson of the World Economic Forum. The annual meeting in Davos brought together individuals from various sectors to discuss important themes such as security, cooperation, growth, jobs, artificial intelligence, and climate change.

"In a world increasingly threatened by violence, aggression, and fragmentation, it is essential that states and businesses join in promoting farsighted and ethically sound models of globalization," the Pope wrote. He stressed the importance of subordinating the pursuit of power and individual gain to the common good and prioritizing the needs of the poor, the needy, and the most vulnerable.

The Pope also highlighted the limited capacity of nations to govern rapid changes in international economic and financial relations, due to the global nature of many businesses and finance. He called on businesses to be guided not only by the pursuit of profit but also by high ethical standards, particularly when dealing with less developed countries.

"Authentic development must be global, shared by all nations and in every part of the world, or it will regress even in areas marked hitherto by constant progress," the Pope stated. He expressed his hope that the participants at the World Economic Forum would recognize their moral responsibility in the fight against poverty, the achievement of integral development for all, and the pursuit of peaceful coexistence among peoples.

The Pope's message serves as a reminder that economic and political leaders have a duty to prioritize the well-being of all individuals, especially those in vulnerable situations. It calls for a shift in perspective, where profit is not the sole focus, but rather the common good and the eradication of poverty become the driving forces behind globalization.