THE VATICAN.- Pope Francis has called on the international community to focus on the crisis happening along the U.S./Mexico border as a result of the arrival of thousands of unaccompanied minors journeying to the U.S. in search of a better life. Mainly originating from Central America, these children face countless dangers on their journey, including the risk of death.

The message from the Pope was delivered during a conference on migration hosted in Mexico City and sponsored by the Vatican and the Mexican Government. Pope Francis indicated that it is imperative that safe and legal forms to migrate are developed.

The leader of the catholic church emphasized that, in addition to seeking solutions to the problem along the border, this should also include informative campaigns on the dangers of the journey, and support improved economic development policies in these countries so that they may improve the quality of life and stem the emigration of its citizens.

The Pope called on people to change their perception of migrants and asylum seekers. In his missive, Pope Francis said, "many of their rights are violated, they are forced to leave their families and unfortunately continue being the object of racist and xenophobic attitudes."

Brenda.Colon@sandiegored.com

borderzonie@gmail.com