Instead of a crown of thorns, he wears the European Union circle of stars.
It’s powerful commentary on the recent tragedy in the Sicilian Strait, where a ship capsized on Sunday, Apr. 19, killing at least 800 migrants on their way to Europe.
The cartoon places blame for the injustice of their death: the crown symbolizes the responsibility of European Union, which has reduced investments in Mediterranean naval rescue programs.
The religious theme recalls the fact that tragedy took place—as it has many times before—in the Vatican’s backyard, and the Catholic Church’s tenet of offering refuge to those who are seeking (“Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself”).