Tributes to Pope Francis: A Legacy of Compassion and Unity

Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, is being mourned by millions across the world. His legacy as a spiritual leader, human rights advocate, and reformer has prompted tributes from heads of state, religious leaders, and global institutions.

Known for his humility and progressive voice, Pope Francis broke many traditions, becoming a global symbol of compassion and inclusivity.

From the United States, President Joe Biden paid a heartfelt tribute to the late pontiff on X (formerly Twitter), stating: "He was the People’s Pope – a light of faith, hope, and love."

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed this sentiment, writing: "Today, the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis. He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate. My thoughts are with all who feel this profound loss."

Other European leaders shared their reflections. French President Emmanuel Macron remembered him as "a man of humility, on the side of the most vulnerable and most fragile," while German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described him as "a reconciler and a warm-hearted person."

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called him "a Pope for the poor, the downtrodden and the forgotten."

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said: "Pope Francis was a transcendent voice for peace, human dignity, and social justice."

Across the globe, Pope Francis is being remembered not only as a religious leader but as a humanitarian who reshaped the role of the papacy for the modern world.

In Africa, tributes came from leaders such as Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who referred to Pope Francis as "a champion of the underprivileged," and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who hailed his "humility and commitment."

From Uganda, the Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among, posted on X: "I have had the privilege and honor of meeting Pope Francis on several occasions. He was a devoted spiritual shepherd, committed to his faith and to the mission of uniting the Church throughout the world.

"Pope Francis was passionate about social justice and world peace. He boldly advocated for religious tolerance and forgiveness among the faithful in the Universal Church."

Thomas Tayebwa, the Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, also noted: "I will always cherish the miracles you brought into my life from the first time you gave me a special prayer at the Vatican. I'm glad God gave me a chance to confess to you on several occasions."

The Ugandan government said Pope Francis had a special place for the nation, one of the first he visited on the continent back in 2015.

Pope Francis touched the heart of Uganda with his visit to the Pearl of Africa in 2015, one of the first countries on the continent he visited - and the government paid a tribute to his memory for that