In a passage of his “State of the World” speech to the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See which has been largely overlooked by the media, Pope Leo XIV denounced the “Orwellian” degeneration of language by Western elites and the suppression of free speech.
In order for multilateralism to work, he said, “there needs to be agreement on the words and concepts that are used…. When words lose their connection to reality, and reality itself becomes debatable and ultimately incommunicable.”
(One thinks of the Europeans who talk about peace while pushing for war.)
“We should also note the paradox that this weakening of language is often invoked in the name of freedom of expression itself,” the Pontiff continued. “However, on closer inspection, the opposite is true, for freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed precisely by the certainty of language and the fact that every term is anchored in the truth. It is painful to see how, especially in the West, the space for genuine freedom of expression is rapidly shrinking. At the same time, a new Orwellian-style language is developing which, in an attempt to be increasingly inclusive, ends up excluding those who do not conform to the ideologies that are fueling it.
“Unfortunately, this leads to other consequences that end up restricting fundamental human rights, starting with the freedom of conscience. In this regard, conscientious objection allows individuals to refuse legal or professional obligations that conflict with moral, ethical or religious principles deeply rooted in their personal lives. This may be the refusal of military service in the name of non-violence, or the refusal on the part of doctors and healthcare professionals to engage in practices such as abortion or euthanasia. Conscientious objection is not rebellion, but an act of fidelity to oneself. At this moment in history, freedom of conscience seems increasingly to be questioned by States, even those that claim to be based on democracy and human rights. This freedom, however, establishes a balance between the collective interest and individual dignity. It also emphasizes that a truly free society does not impose uniformity but protects the diversity of consciences, preventing authoritarian tendencies and promoting an ethical dialogue that enriches the social fabric.”
