To improve the dissemination of palliative care in the world

Pope Francis’ call for palliative care — not euthanasia or assisted suicide — during the General Audience of 9 February came on the first day of the Pontifical Academy of Life’s webinar to improve, support and disseminate palliative care in the world. During his catechesis, the Pope expressed gratitude for palliative care which seeks to accompany and support people at the end of life. “Remember that the right to care and treatment for all must always be prioritized, so that the weakest, particularly the elderly and the sick, are never discarded,” he said. Indeed, “life is a right, not death, which must be welcomed, not administered. And this ethical principle concerns everyone, not just Christians or believers.” The webinar, which saw the participation of over 300 experts from across the globe, concluded on the day the Church ...