Pope Francis bemoans ‘selfish’ Europe after accepting Charlemagne prize

Pope Francis, accepting the Charlemagne prize for promoting European unity, has bemoaned that the continent’s people “are tempted to yield to our own selfish interests and to consider putting up fences”.

“I dream of a Europe where being a migrant is not a crime, but a summons to a greater commitment on behalf of the dignity of every human being,” he told an audience, including German chancellor, Angela Merkel, Italian premier, Matteo Renzi, and Spain’s King Felipe VI.

“I dream of a Europe that promotes and protects the rights of everyone, without neglecting its duties toward all. I dream of a Europe of which it will not be said that its commitment to human rights was its last utopia.”