“Populorum Progressio” – History Continues
Other encyclicals that developed the same themes
After Populorum Progressio, several subsequent encyclicals developed and deepened the themes addressed in Pope Paul VI’s encyclical. Here are some of them:
Sollicitudo Rei Socialis (1987)
This encyclical, promulgated by Pope John Paul II, marks the 20th anniversary of Populorum Progressio. It addresses the issues of human development, social justice, solidarity and peace in the context of the global situation of the time. It emphasises the need for an active commitment to promoting the common good and denouncing injustice.
Centesimus Annus (1991)
This encyclical of Pope John Paul II also celebrates a significant anniversary, the centenary of Pope Leo XIII’s encyclical Rerum Novarum. Centesimus Annus deals with social justice, the economy, the role of the state, labour and human dignity. It critically examines socialism, capitalism and the challenges posed by globalisation.
Caritas in Veritate (2009)
This encyclical by Pope Benedict XVI focuses on charity in truth and addresses contemporary economic and social issues. It explores issues such as globalisation, social justice, sustainable development, solidarity, ethical economy and the role of family and community in promoting the common good.
Laudato Si’ (2015)
Promulgated by Pope Francis, this encyclical mainly addresses the issue of ecology and the environment, linking it closely to social and economic issues. It emphasises the interconnection between care for creation, social justice, poverty, equity and peace. It calls for collective responsibility to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.
Brothers All (2020)
Promulgated by Pope Francis, this is certainly a very relevant encyclical in the context of promoting the themes of a just economy, solidarity and social justice. This encyclical addresses the theme of humanity as a family and emphasises the importance of universal brotherhood, peace and justice.
‘Brothers All’ relates directly to the themes addressed in ‘Populorum Progressio’ and other social encyclicals. It addresses issues such as solidarity between peoples, economic equity, the acceptance of migrants and refugees, interreligious and intercultural dialogue, and the role of politics in addressing injustice. These themes are intrinsically linked to the promotion of an economy based on human dignity, sharing of resources and building a more equitable and sustainable world.
All these encyclicals have further developed and deepened the themes of Populorum Progressio, offering a continuous and timely perspective on social, economic and environmental issues in the context of Catholic social teaching.
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