URGENT UPDATE: Pope Leo XIV has sounded the alarm on the devastating effects of gambling, declaring it a “scourge” that is destroying families across Italy. In a powerful address to Italian mayors on December 29, 2025, the first American Pope highlighted the alarming rise of gambling in the nation, calling for immediate action to combat this growing crisis.
During his meeting, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the need for “authentically human relationships” to counteract the isolating effects of gambling and other forms of loneliness. He noted that Italy has become Europe’s largest gambling market, with gross gaming revenues soaring to 21.5 billion euros in 2024, surpassing the UK, Germany, and France.
The Pope lamented, “Unfortunately, our cities know forms of marginalization, violence, and loneliness that ask to be addressed. I would like to draw attention, in particular, to the scourge of gambling, which ruins many families.” His remarks resonate deeply as statistics show a significant increase in gambling activity in recent years, marking it as a critical issue for social and mental health.
Citing a recent report by Caritas Italiana, the Pope warned that gambling not only affects financial stability but also erodes social trust and educational well-being. “This is a serious educational, mental health and social trust problem,” he stated, urging political leaders to foster genuine connections among citizens to promote social peace.
The concerns raised by Pope Leo XIV echo sentiments shared by other leaders, including Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, head of the Italian Bishops’ Conference. Earlier in June, Cardinal Zuppi remarked that gambling “ruins people” and impoverishes relationships, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to address this issue.
As the government prepares for 2026, the call for stricter regulations on gambling is growing louder, particularly within the Catholic Church. The urgency of the situation is prompting discussions on how to effectively manage the industry’s rapid expansion and mitigate its detrimental effects on families.
With the Pope’s heartfelt plea, the spotlight is on Italy’s leadership to respond decisively. The ongoing dialogue surrounding gambling regulation is poised to capture national attention, making it a pivotal issue for families throughout the country.
As developments unfold, it remains clear that the conversation about gambling’s impact on society is far from over. The Pope’s message serves as a rallying cry for communities to unite against this pressing challenge, advocating for hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
For more details and updates on this critical issue, stay tuned as we bring you the latest developments.
