Overview
- Speaking at the Vatican to the National Association of Italian Local Authorities, the pope urged officials to promote “authentically human relationships” to confront addiction and loneliness.
- He cited Italian Caritas findings of a sharp rise in gambling in recent years and warned of harms to education, mental health, and social trust.
- The remarks linked gambling to wider social strains, including a demographic crisis, youth difficulties, elderly loneliness, and fraying social bonds.
- He called for local initiatives alongside moral formation by parents and schools to guide young people and prevent addictive behaviors.
- Monday’s appeal followed his November message to Italy’s National Conference on Addictions warning about digital-era addictions, including compulsive betting, pornography, and constant social media use.