Urgent: Cardinal Zuppi Warns of ‘Rehabilitation of War’ – A Paradigm Shift Threatening Global Peace
Gorizia, Italy – September 23, 2025 – A chilling assessment of the global landscape emerged today as Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, President of the Italian Episcopal Conference, delivered a stark warning about a disturbing trend: the growing acceptance of war as a legitimate instrument of political strategy. Speaking at the opening of the Permanent Episcopal Council in Gorizia, a city symbolically located on Italy’s border, Cardinal Zuppi expressed deep concern over what he termed a “change of paradigm” – a dangerous normalization of conflict.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi addressing the Permanent Episcopal Council in Gorizia. (Image credit: [Source/Photographer])
The Alarming Normalization of Conflict
Zuppi’s address wasn’t simply a condemnation of current conflicts; it was a diagnosis of a deeper, more unsettling shift in global thinking. He argued that the increasing willingness to resort to war represents “the failure of politics and humanity.” This isn’t about isolated incidents, but a generalized acceptance, a creeping belief that force is an acceptable means to an end. This sentiment, he fears, is actively eroding the foundations of international cooperation and peaceful resolution.
The Cardinal’s choice of Gorizia as the location for this address is significant. Border cities, historically sites of conflict and division, serve as potent reminders of the human cost of war. His message, delivered in this context, underscores the urgency of the situation. It’s a call to remember the lessons of the past, lest we repeat them.
Europe’s Role: A Beacon of Democracy and Peace
Despite the grim outlook, Cardinal Zuppi offered a message of hope, specifically directed towards Europe. He passionately “relaunched Europe as ‘a way towards the future,’” urging the Italian and European churches to actively support the continent’s consolidation as a bastion of democracy, peace, and freedom. This isn’t merely a political appeal; it’s a moral imperative, a call to defend the inherent dignity of the human person in a world increasingly characterized by instability and uncertainty.
Historically, Europe has been both a source of conflict and a champion of peace. The post-World War II era saw the creation of institutions like the European Union, specifically designed to foster cooperation and prevent future wars. Zuppi’s call to action is a reminder that this work is far from over, and that vigilance is crucial.
The Dangers of Polarization and the Path to Peace
A central theme of Zuppi’s address was the corrosive effect of polarization. He warned against the dangers of falling into the trap of “us versus them” thinking, where ideological divides harden into impenetrable walls. This polarization, he argued, doesn’t just hinder the search for new solutions; it actively fuels conflict, breeding radicalization, violence, and a breakdown in communication. “We” against “them,” friends against enemies, truths against lies – these are not just rhetorical devices, but dangerous barriers to understanding and empathy.
Zuppi offered a powerful antidote: a renewed commitment to peace and non-violence at the grassroots level. He called on every parish and community to become “a home of peace,” actively promoting dialogue and embracing the concerns of civil society. For Christians, he emphasized, the pursuit of peace isn’t an optional extra, but a fundamental tenet of the Gospel. He powerfully reminded listeners that even harsh words can be a form of violence, echoing Jesus’s teaching that even calling someone a “fool” is akin to murder.
This emphasis on local action is particularly relevant in today’s world, where global challenges often feel overwhelming. By focusing on building peace within our own communities, we can create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our immediate surroundings.
Cardinal Zuppi’s warning is a wake-up call. The normalization of war isn’t a distant threat; it’s a present reality. Addressing this requires a fundamental shift in mindset, a renewed commitment to dialogue, and a courageous embrace of peace – not as a naive ideal, but as a practical necessity for the survival of humanity. Staying informed and engaged is the first step towards building a more peaceful future. For ongoing coverage of global conflicts and efforts towards peace, continue to visit archyde.com.
