Pope Leo XIV visits Spain’s Canary Islands and pays tribute to migrants who died attempting the perilous Atlantic crossing. During the trip, which highlights the risks faced by people travelling to reach Europe via the archipelago, the pope casts a floral wreath or bouquet into the sea off the coast near the Canary Islands. Reports say the ceremony takes place during stops including Arguineguín on Gran Canaria, where he meets migrants and individuals involved in assisting them. He also blesses a cross made from the wood of migrant boats. Across coverage, the pope calls for human dignity and condemns what he describes as “indifference” toward migrants, including from political leaders and religious communities. He warns against societies becoming accustomed to migration routes turning into “unmarked graves,” and urges that the world not turn its back on migrant deaths. The visit is presented as part of a wider message directed at leaders to respond more humanely to people fleeing war and poverty, and to address the dangers associated with irregular migration routes.