Ruth Sherlock
👤 SpeakerAppearances Over Time
Podcast Appearances
It's the latest tragedy on this dangerous route that people pay smugglers to take in the hope of finding a better life in Europe.
The International Organization for Migration says since 2014, over 33,220 migrants have gone missing, presumed dead, on this Mediterranean route.
The Baroque masterpiece, the Trevi Fountain, is a must-see spot for tourists coming to Rome.
In recent years, the piazza beside it is often so crowded there's little room to move.
This year, the fountain had some 9 million visitors, according to Rome's mayor.
So, Rome plans to charge from February a 2 euro tourist tax for any non-resident wanting access to the fountain.
It estimates it will make some $7.6 million in annual revenue.
It's part of a broader effort by the Italian government to capitalise on the country's famed heritage.
For example, Verona this month began charging for access to the balcony in the northern Italian city that is associated with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
Pope Leo remembered in his address his predecessor, Pope Francis.
His prophetic voice, his pastoral style and his rich teachings have defined the path of the Church in these years, Leo said, encouraging us to place God's mercy at the centre.
He said the Church should be welcoming to all and caring for the poor.
Francis, who led the 1.4 billion member Catholic Church for 12 years, had been known to use these annual Christmas addresses to scathingly critique the work of his cardinals.
Leo, who is more diplomatic, was much gentler.
He warned officials only not to allow rigidity or ideology to slow progress for the church.
Ursula von der Leyen is responding to attacks on Europe made in the Trump administration's new national security strategy.