A video circulated online claiming that an African man was denied access to view Pope Francis’ body at St Peter’s Basilica due to his race has been debunked. Some social media posts even alleged that Africans were being barred from paying their respects to the late Pope, igniting accusations of racism at the Vatican.
However, these claims have been thoroughly debunked, revealing a misunderstanding rooted in a single incident. The public viewing of Pope Francis’ body, held from 23 to 25 April 2025, welcomed approximately 250,000 mourners from across the globe. Far from being discriminatory, the event saw a diverse crowd, including people of various nationalities and ethnicities, freely passing through St Peter’s Basilica to honour the pontiff. Eyewitness accounts, including those from journalists at St Peter’s Square, confirmed that Black individuals were among the mourners, with no racial restrictions enforced.
So, what sparked the controversy? Fact-checking by leading media organisations and other sources clarified that the man in the viral video was escorted out not because of his race, but due to his behaviour after he jumped the queue, bypassed security protocols, and began shouting, “I want to see the Pope!” His disruption prompted security to intervene, a standard response to ensure order during such a high-profile event.
The Vatican’s open-door policy during the viewing further undermines the allegations. With 18 African cardinals set to participate in the upcoming conclave to elect the next pope, the significant African representation at the heart of the Catholic Church speaks volumes about its inclusivity. The diverse attendance at the viewing, coupled with official Vatican reports, leaves no room for claims of racial discrimination.
Yet, the speed with which misinformation spreads online underscores the power of social media to amplify unverified narratives. Posts on X falsely claiming a racist ban gained traction, only to be corrected by diligent fact-checking and first-hand accounts. This incident serves as a reminder to approach viral claims with scepticism, especially when they stir division.
In the end, the story is not one of exclusion, but of a global community united in grief. The 250,000 mourners who filed through St Peter’s Basilica, regardless of background, paid tribute to Pope Francis’ legacy of compassion. The truth, as always, proves more unifying than rumour.
