On Friday 12 June 2026, the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE), together with the Catholic Bishops’ Conferences of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Great Britain and the United States, published a joint statement ahead of the G7 Summit, which will take place in France from 15 to 17 June 2026. Download the Declaration: EN – FR | Summary : EN | FR
In their common appeal to G7 Heads of State and Government, the bishops reaffirm that the dignity of every human person must remain the foundation of political and economic action at a time marked by armed conflicts, geopolitical tensions, growing inequalities, climate challenges and rapid technological change.
The statement calls on G7 countries to renew their commitment to multilateralism, respect for international law and the pursuit of peaceful solutions to conflicts. As the bishops note, “in a world marked by war and instability, it is more necessary than ever to strengthen international institutions, protect civilian populations and uphold fundamental rights, particularly religious freedom and the dignity of the most vulnerable.”
The appeal also urges G7 leaders to place the human person at the centre of development policies and international solidarity efforts. The bishops encourage a strong commitment to combating poverty, expanding access to education and healthcare, ensuring food security and promoting development that respects both people and the environment. They further call for enhanced international cooperation against organised crime, human trafficking and illicit trade that fuel violence and undermine societies.
Addressing the rapid expansion of digital technologies and artificial intelligence, the statement highlights the urgency of ensuring “ethical, transparent and democratic governance” so that innovation remains at the service of the common good and the human person. Particular attention is also given to the impact of these technologies on children and young people and to the protection of fundamental freedoms.
The bishops further urge G7 States to fully assume their responsibilities in tackling climate change, advancing a just ecological transition and supporting communities most exposed to its consequences. The statement also recalls that “migrants and refugees, forced to flee war, persecution or environmental disasters, must always be received with dignity and humanity,” while recognising the legitimate responsibility of States to safeguard the common good.
Through this joint initiative, the bishops reaffirm the Catholic Church’s commitment to dialogue, peace, justice and the global common good, placing particular emphasis on its dedication to the most vulnerable and its service to peoples across the world.
This joint initiative reflects the universality of the Catholic Church and its ability to bring together voices from different continents and cultural contexts around shared concerns for humanity. By speaking with one voice ahead of the G7 Summit, the bishops express the Church’s enduring commitment to contribute to the pursuit of peace, justice and integral human development in service of the global common good.
