Pope Leo has urged Christians to pray for reporters, and condemned violence against journalists.

Leading prayer on World Press Day, 3 May, the Pontiff highlighted members of the press who have been killed or face threats for doing their job.

“Today we celebrate World Press Freedom Day ... unfortunately, this right is often violated, sometimes in blatant ways, sometimes in more hidden forms," he said.

"We remember the many journalists and reporters who have been victims of war and violence.”

It is not the first time Pope Leo has drawn attention to the dangers of reporting. In August 2025, Diane Foley, the mother of James Foley, a journalist murdered by ISIS, was invited to speak at the Vatican.

Diane said she was “deeply honoured” by the Pope’s leadership, and would “pray for him”.

“We need his leadership for peace and hope in the world,” she added.