Pope Leo XIV Urges Young Italians to Shun Naivety and ‘Prophets of Doom’

Vatican City, February 22, 2026; Pope Leo XIV on Saturday encouraged young Italians to avoid both naivety and the pessimism of “prophets of doom” as he received members of the Policoro Project, an initiative of the Italian Episcopal Conference that supports young people in finding employment.

Addressing the gathering, the Pope praised the youth as “the beautiful face of an Italy that does not give up, that does not resign itself, that rolls up its sleeves and gets back on its feet”.

Founded in December 1995 by Fr Mario Operti, a priest engaged in youth ministry, the Policoro Project initially sought to evangelise the world of work. Born in the Mezzogiorno — the economically disadvantaged south of Italy long troubled by organised crime — the initiative first focused on southern regions before expanding nationwide.

Over time, the project broadened its mission beyond employment. Pope Leo commended its efforts to combat corruption, labour exploitation and injustice, as well as its work in transforming assets confiscated from the mafia into social ventures and support systems for young entrepreneurs.

Highlighting Italy’s current demographic challenges, the Pope stressed the need for continued commitment, particularly in areas affected by depopulation. In what he described as a season of “demographic winter”, he warned that many young people risk discouragement and withdrawal.

“It is always time to spread your enthusiasm and sensitivity, even in the most resistant environments and among the most resigned people,” he said.

The Pope identified three key resources for the project’s mission. The first is the Gospel, which he described as holding “the true power that transforms hearts and the world”. The second is the Church’s social teaching, which, he noted, helps believers to “love this age” and equips them to interpret reality.

He cautioned participants not to be swayed by those who view everything negatively, yet also warned against assuming that all is well. Building a society aligned with God’s loving plan, he said, requires keeping at the forefront the dignity of the human person, the common good, solidarity, subsidiiairity, the universal destination of goods, participation, integral ecology and peace.

Finally, Pope Leo underscored the importance of community, describing it as “an incubator of the future”. While contemporary culture often promotes isolation and competition, he insisted that social, economic and political life depends on strong relationships.

“You will be fruitful whenever you care for community networks,” he said, adding that generations of saints and committed lay people have contributed to a “river of holiness” that continues to renew society.

Pope Leo XIV Urges Young Italians to Shun Naivety and ‘Prophets of Doom’

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