Belgian Prime Minister Condemns Pope Over Clerical Abuse Scandal

Belgium's Prime Minister Alexander De Croo sharply criticized Pope Francis for the Catholic Church's role in clerical sex abuse and cover-ups, demanding concrete steps to prioritize victims' interests. The pointed remarks underscore the rawness of the scandal in Belgium, where attempts to uncover past abuses continue amid calls for accountability.

Belgium's Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo, harshly criticized Pope Francis for the Catholic Church's horrific legacy of clerical sex abuse and cover-ups, demanding 'concrete steps' to address the past and prioritize victims' interests during Francis' visit on Friday.

In a rare diplomatic deviation, De Croo's sharp remarks were matched by King Philippe, emphasizing the abuse scandal's deep wounds in Belgium, two decades after revelations began to surface. Belgium's Catholic hierarchy has been hit hard, culminating in a decline of its influence.

Pope Francis, acknowledging the gravity of the issue, applauded De Croo's speech and expressed the church's shame. Amid ongoing calls for justice, a Flemish documentary, new parliamentary probes, and historical forced adoption scandals have intensified the public demand for transparency and reparations.

(With inputs from agencies.)