Pope Francis has addressed the urgent crisis of migrants risking their lives in search of safety.

Highlighting the dangers of "sea and desert," the pontiff used his general audience to emphasise the indifference towards those who perish on their dangerous journeys.

Pope Francis specifically mentioned the Mediterranean Sea, once a symbol of connection, now a "cemetery" for countless migrants.

He condemned the deliberate efforts to push back those seeking refuge, calling it a "grave sin" and reminding the faithful of the biblical commandment: "You shall not wrong or oppress a foreigner."

The pope also emphasised that the sea and desert are biblically symbolic of suffering and hope, representing both the pain of oppression and the promise of liberation.

He stressed that God is with the migrants, sharing in their suffering and hope.

Rather than stricter laws or fortified borders, Pope Francis called for a global governance system based on justice, fraternity, and solidarity, advocating for safe and legal pathways for those fleeing conflict and persecution.

He also praised the efforts of "good Samaritans" like the Mediterranea Saving Humans organisation, which works to rescue migrants in the Mediterranean.

He urged everyone to support this "fight for civilisation", whether through direct action or prayer, against the growing culture of indifference.