Pope Leo XIV calls for justice in Equatorial Guinea, highlighting systemic governance and inequality

The Pope’s visit to Equatorial Guinea highlights a complex interplay of religious authority, political power, and historical legacy.

The country’s systemic governance issues are rooted in colonial history and resource mismanagement, with marginalized communities bearing the brunt of inequality. Cross-culturally, religious leaders often serve as mediators, but their influence is limited without structural change. Indigenous and local voices must be integrated into national policy to address land rights and political exclusion. Scientific evidence on the 'resource curse' underscores the need for transparent governance, while future modeling suggests that without reform, instability will persist. International actors, including the Catholic Church, have a role to play in advocating for justice and supporting inclusive development.