Pope Leo XIV visited the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) headquarters in Rome, demonstrating strong support for global efforts to combat rising hunger and food insecurity. The visit comes at a critical time as humanitarian organizations face increasing challenges due to growing food crises and declining funding.
During his visit, Pope Leo XIV honored the dedication and sacrifice of WFP staff members who work in some of the world’s most dangerous environments. He laid a wreath at the organization’s memorial wall, which commemorates 171 WFP employees who lost their lives while serving vulnerable communities across the globe. Addressing WFP staff and leadership, the Pope praised humanitarian workers for their commitment to helping people affected by conflict, displacement, and food shortages.
The Pope’s visit coincides with an alarming rise in global hunger. According to WFP estimates, around 266 million people in 47 countries are experiencing acute food insecurity in 2025. Despite growing needs, humanitarian funding has declined significantly, placing additional pressure on aid organizations. Pope Leo XIV emphasized that hunger is not only a humanitarian issue but also a major factor contributing to social instability, conflict, forced migration, and economic challenges worldwide.
Former WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain welcomed the Pope’s support, highlighting the human stories behind hunger statistics and stressing the connection between conflict and food insecurity. Acting Executive Director Carl Skau described the visit as a powerful reminder that ending hunger is a shared global responsibility.
During the event, Pope Leo XIV viewed WFP’s Nobel Peace Prize, awarded in 2020 for its efforts to combat hunger worldwide, and met virtually with frontline workers representing operations across multiple regions. As a gesture of appreciation, Carl Skau presented the Pope with a framed collection of handwoven bowls and plates created by an indigenous Guaraní women’s group from Bolivia.
The visit marks only the second papal visit to the World Food Programme. Pope Francis previously visited WFP in June 2016, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the human face behind poverty and hunger. As global food insecurity continues to rise, Pope Leo XIV’s visit serves as a renewed call for international cooperation, increased humanitarian support, and sustained efforts to build a world free from hunger.
