UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican today to focus world attention on the plight of vulnerable children, especially those impacted by conflict, poverty and the global foreign aid funding and debt crises. “Today, children are suffering on an unprecedented scale from conflicts and crises, while access to health, education and protection services is being rolled back by global cuts to foreign aid funding,” said Russell. “Pope Leo has a powerful voice in spreading the message of peace and protection of children, and we’re grateful. The world must listen, and do better for children.”
