Pope Francis has strongly rejected ‘gender theory’ which claims there are no real differences between men and women, warning that the removal of such difference would represent “a step backwards” for society.

During his weekly catechesis, the Pontiff stressed that getting rid of the difference between man and woman “is the problem, not the solution”.

Acknowledging that the modern era had added much to society’s understanding of men and woman, the Pope nevertheless added that “it also has introduced many doubts and much scepticism”.

“For example,” he said, “I wonder if so-called gender theory may not also be an expression of frustration and resignation that aims to erase sexual differentiation because it no longer knows how to come to terms with it.”

Men and women, he added, “must treat each other with respect and friendly cooperation” and on this basis, solid marriages could be built.

“We are made to listen to each other and help each other. We can say that without mutual enrichment in this relationship – in thinking and action, in feelings and work, even in faith – the two can’t even understand fully what it means to be a man and woman.”
Far from seeking to nullify difference, the Pope said, the best way to solve the problems and conflicts in male-female relations is for men and women to “talk to each other more, listen to each other more, know each other better, care more for each other.”