Pope Francis Francis called the closure of factories and the dismissal of workers without good reason "a very serious sin".

"Anyone who, with the help of economic frauds or deals that are not completely transparent, closes factories and companies and takes away work from people, commits a very serious sin," the pontiff.

In particular, the Pope is concerned about the situation in the Italian branch of the Sky TV channel, where serious cuts are made.

The Pope spoke Wednesday before thousands of people in St. Peter's Square in the Vatican. In his speech, he deviated from the prepared text.

"Work gives us a sense of self-worth.

Those who are responsible for people should do everything so that every woman and every man can work and walk with his head held high, to look people in the eyes with a sense of dignity, "said the pontiff.

The Pope of Rome used to protect the rights of workers. In September 2014, he criticized the German steel company ThyssenKrupp for plans to reduce workers at an unprofitable plant in Italy. Pope Francis often criticizes capitalism for "worshiping money" and growing inequality.