Pope Francis: Increased Financial Compensation for Abuse Victims

Pope Francis has called for more substantial financial compensation for victims of Catholic clergy sexual abuse in Belgium. On his return flight to Rome, he emphasized the Church's commitment to supporting survivors and punishing abusers. The pontiff highlighted that the current amounts allocated are insufficient.

Pope Francis declared on Sunday that victims of Catholic clergy sexual abuse in Belgium deserve significantly higher financial compensation. He criticized the current amounts as 'too small'.

During his return flight to Rome from Belgium, the pontiff addressed the issue after being urged by the country's political leaders to take more concrete actions regarding clergy abuse. Francis also affirmed the Catholic Church's dedication to aiding survivors.

'We must take care of those who have been abused and punish the abusers,' he stated.

(With inputs from agencies.)