Pope Leo Plans France Visit Amid Assisted-Dying Debate

Pope Leo XIV’s first official visit to France, beginning September 25, will include meetings with Emmanuel Macron and other political and civic leaders, as well as events in Paris, Lourdes and Metz. Protecting human life is expected to be a central theme, particularly as France has constitutionally protected abortion and recently approved legislation allowing assisted dying, positions at odds with Catholic teaching. The trip also places clerical sexual abuse and broader questions about the Church’s role in secular France on the agenda. Leo has declined some traditional state-visit honors, including the Legion of Honour and a state dinner, while reports that the Vatican rejected a private Notre-Dame meeting with Macron have prompted speculation about tensions over end-of-life policy; Macron’s office and French bishops characterize the matter as routine scheduling and protocol.