Pope Leo XIV has hailed the Republic of San Marino as a model of political freedom and civic responsibility during a one-day visit to the world’s oldest surviving republic.

Addressing local authorities, Pope Leo XIV reflected on the legacy of Saints Marino and Leone, who he credited with helping create a society rooted in freedom, mutual respect, and community.

The pope said the two saints translated the Christian message into a new community and political model, strongly characterized by the Christian principles of freedom, mutual respect, and communion, a legacy that he said continues to shape the republic today.

San Marino: A Small Republic with a Big Impact

San Marino, a nation of about 35,000 people completely surrounded by the Italian state, traces its origins to the fourth century. It is governed by a 60-member parliament that elects two captains regent every six months to serve jointly as heads of state, a power-sharing arrangement designed to prevent the concentration of authority.

Pope Leo XIV argued that small political communities like San Marino can offer lessons in public service and social cohesion at a time of growing division and distrust.

The American pontiff praised a society built on respect for one’s own freedom and that of others, and above all on respect for the sacred Will of God.

A Laboratory of Good Politics

Pope Leo XIV described San Marino as a laboratory of good politics and called for public life to uphold the dignity of every human person from conception to natural death.

He warned against models that present themselves as liberating but ultimately fail to serve the human person and the common good.

The pope also praised small communities in the San Marino-Montefeltro region that have responded to depopulation and the loss of services through mutual support and cooperation.

San Marino’s unique system has been an inspiration to many, and Pope Leo XIV’s visit serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting the values of freedom, mutual respect, and community.

A Warning Against Threats to Human Dignity

Pope Leo XIV warned that modern societies face increasing threats from violence, social fragmentation, and ideologies that put self-interest ahead of the common good.

He urged Christians to respond through forgiveness, solidarity, and concern for the vulnerable.

The pope also noted that the world is wounded by many conflicts, citing growing violence, closures, and fear of others.

San Marino’s example serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting the common good and upholding human dignity in all aspects of life.

Pope Leo XIV’s visit to San Marino has highlighted the republic’s unique history and its continued commitment to the values of freedom, mutual respect, and community.

As the world grapples with the challenges of the 21st century, San Marino’s example serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting the values that have made it a model of good politics.

Abortion and Human Dignity

In 2021, San Marino voters approved a referendum legalizing abortion during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, overturning a decades-old ban.

Pope Leo XIV did not directly address the referendum, but he repeatedly stressed the need for political, social, and economic systems to place human dignity at their center.

He warned against models that fail to serve the human person and the common good, and called for a renewed commitment to upholding human dignity in all aspects of life.