On Tuesday (September 24, 2024), Pope Francis made a passionate appeal for the discharge of Aung San Suu Kyi during a speech on the Vatican. On this occasion, the Pope called on Burma to release the deposed leader, who has been in prison since 2021 following a military coup.
Aung San Suu Kyi, a renowned human rights defender and Nobel Peace Prize winner, was detained in difficult conditions. Earlier, Pope Francis met together with her son in Rome and again called for her release. He also offered the Vatican as a refuge for her in exile.
“I called for the discharge of Mrs. Aung San Suu Kyi and received her son in Rome. I offered her the Vatican as a refuge,” Pope Francis said.
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The purpose of the apostolic journey
According to Vatican Newsthis appeal for Suu Kyi’s freedom became the centerpiece of the Pope’s apostolic tour of Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore.
The pope expressed that Suu Kyi’s suffering stays the topic of his constant prayer. He stressed the importance of taking motion, stating that silence is unacceptable within the face of the present situation in Burma.
“The situation in Burma can’t be ignored. We must act,” he insisted.
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A vision of peace in Burma
Pope Francis further emphasized the necessity for peace in Burma, emphasizing that the country’s future have to be built on human dignity, human rights and respect for democratic values. He called for the establishment of a democratic order that may enable all residents to contribute to the common good.
“The future of your country must be peace, based on respect for the dignity and rights of all, on respect for a democratic order that allows everyone to contribute to the common good,” Pope Francis said.
The symbolism of girls within the Burmese struggle
The Pope also referred to the powerful symbolism of girls within the political struggle in Burma. He recalled the long-lasting moment when the brave nun knelt before the armed forces together with her hands raised, a picture that echoed all over the world. Pope Francis prayed that the younger generation would show similar courage and rise up for the reality.
“At this moment, the lady is a symbol, and political symbols must be defended. Do you remember that nun kneeling with her hands raised in front of the army? Her image went around the world. I pray that you young people will be so brave. The Church in your country is brave.”
