Rome — The Holy See will not take part in the proposed “Board of Peace,” citing the Vatican’s unique international status, according to Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State.
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of a bilateral meeting between the Holy See and the Italian Government at Palazzo Borromeo — the seat of Italy’s Embassy to the Holy See — Cardinal Parolin said the Vatican’s decision stems from its distinct nature.
“The Holy See will not participate in the Board of Peace because of its particular nature, which is evidently not that of other States,” he said.
The meeting marked the anniversary of the signing of the Lateran Pacts and was attended by Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic.
Concerns Over Structure and Mandate
While declining participation, Cardinal Parolin acknowledged that efforts to create mechanisms for addressing international crises are important.
“The important thing is that an attempt is being made to provide a response,” he said. However, he added that there are “critical points” that require clarification.
One of the Holy See’s principal concerns relates to the role of the international community.
“At the international level it should above all be the UN that manages these crisis situations,” he said, emphasizing that the United Nations remains the primary forum for conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
Although details about the structure and mandate of the proposed Board of Peace remain under discussion, the Vatican signaled that unresolved questions prevent its formal involvement.
Pessimism on Ukraine
Cardinal Parolin also addressed the war in Ukraine, speaking days before the fourth anniversary of the conflict’s outbreak.
“There is considerable pessimism,” he said. “On both sides it does not seem to us that there are real advances regarding peace, and it is tragic that after four years, we still find ourselves at this point.”
His remarks come amid renewed bombardments targeting energy infrastructure in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities.
While expressing hope that dialogue efforts might yield progress, the Vatican’s top diplomat acknowledged that expectations remain low.
Strong Ties With Italy
Despite declining participation in the proposed peace body, Cardinal Parolin highlighted the positive relationship between the Holy See and Italy.
He said the bilateral meeting included expressions of gratitude for the Italian government’s attention to issues important to the Catholic Church, including family policy, education, disability rights and prison reform.
Working groups involving the Italian Bishops’ Conference (CEI) are continuing discussions in these areas, he noted, adding that progress has been made.
The Vatican’s position reflects its long-standing diplomatic approach: maintaining a distinct moral and spiritual role in international affairs while avoiding alignment with structures that might compromise its neutrality.
For now, the Holy See appears intent on reinforcing multilateral frameworks — particularly through the United Nations — rather than joining new geopolitical initiatives.