Western-dominated media overlooked the concerns of the developing world at the recent Synod on the Family, a senior cardinal has said.
Cardinal Luis Tagle of Manila said controversy around issues like gay marriage and divorce were over emphasised at the expense of issues of concern to the developing world like poverty, mixed marriages and migration.
He told a press conference in Manila last week: “The press is really dominated by the West. It just shook me [that] there was not a single Asian journalist among the hundreds and hundreds of international journalists. Sad to say there was not a single African journalist also."
"Who will report on the concerns of Asia? Who will report on the voice of Asia being raised in the synod hall?" the cardinal added, according to the Asian Catholic news network UCAN.
He accused Western journalists covering the synod of having an agenda.
"Let's say everyone wants to communicate something. So, without denying the other parts, they focus on one, and others will just be mentioned in passing. Is that fair?"
He added: "Some people thought that the only topic discussed at the synod was divorce and gay union. I assure you, those were discussed. But I also assure you, those were not the only concerns," the cardinal said.
Above: Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of Manila, Philippines, arrives for the opening session of the extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family at the Vatican 6 October. Photo: CNS photo/Paul Haring
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