Leo XIV Told Bishops: "Far-Right Ideology Biggest Threat"

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Leo XIV Told Bishops: "Far-Right Ideology Biggest Threat"

gloria.tv | February 23, 2026

Pope Leo XIV reportedly told Spanish bishops that the rise of far-right ideology was his “greatest concern in Spain”.

According to ElPais.es on 23 February, he said this on 17 November during an audience with the executive commission of the Spanish Bishops Conference (nine prelates).

El País, citing two senior churchmen familiar with the discussion, reports that the Pope cautioned that "extremist" movements are attempting to "win the Catholic vote" and instrumentalise the Church for partisan political ends.

The paper adds that the bishops were surprised by how directly the Pope focused on the political issue of the right, rather than other concerns they had presented to him.

Following the meeting, the bishops changed their stance on stalled abuse compensation negotiations and expressed support for the government's immigration plan.