February 20, 2026
The Holy See will not participate in the proposed “Board of Peace” initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump, reaffirming its distinctive diplomatic identity and longstanding commitment to multilateralism centered on the United Nations.
The position was articulated by Cardinal Pietro Parolin during a bilateral meeting with the Italian government marking the anniversary of the Lateran Pacts. The talks were held at Palazzo Borromeo, in the presence of Italian President Sergio Mattarella and senior officials.
Speaking to journalists, Cardinal Parolin explained that the Holy See’s position reflects “its particular nature, which is evidently not that of other States.”
While welcoming initiatives aimed at resolving global crises, he noted that elements of the proposed Board of Peace raise unresolved questions. “There are points that leave us somewhat perplexed,” he said, emphasizing that any new diplomatic mechanism must maintain clarity and coherence within the broader international system.
UN at the Center of Global Peace Efforts
The Vatican underscored that the management of international conflicts should remain primarily within the UN framework.
“At the international level, it should above all be the UN that manages these crisis situations. This is one of the points on which we have insisted,” Cardinal Parolin stated.
For decades, the Holy See has advocated diplomacy rooted in international law and inclusive dialogue. Its approach favors universally recognized institutions rather than parallel mechanisms that could risk fragmenting global peace efforts.
Ukraine: A War Without Breakthrough
As the fourth anniversary of the war in Ukraine approaches, Cardinal Parolin expressed concern over the lack of tangible progress toward peace. Continued attacks on energy infrastructure in Kyiv and other cities have intensified humanitarian suffering.
“There is considerable pessimism,” he acknowledged.
The Holy See has consistently called for ceasefires, humanitarian corridors, prisoner exchanges, and sustained negotiations — urging the global community to prioritize human life above political calculations.
Peace as a Moral and Spiritual Task
In recent addresses, Pope Leo XIV has emphasized that authentic peace goes beyond diplomatic settlements. It must be rooted in justice, reconciliation, and what he calls a “conversion of heart.”
In his message for the World Day of Peace, the Pope warned against escalating military blocs and geopolitical rivalries, calling instead for “a patient diplomacy of encounter” centered on human dignity.
He has repeatedly highlighted the suffering of civilians — particularly children, the elderly, and displaced families — urging governments to ensure humanitarian protection is never subordinated to strategic interests.
Implications for Asia’s Fragile Peace Landscape
The Holy See’s reaffirmation of UN-centered multilateralism resonates strongly across Asia, where complex security challenges persist — from maritime disputes in the South China Sea to instability in Myanmar and tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
In many Asian contexts, peace-building is inseparable from social justice, economic inclusion, interfaith dialogue, and minority rights. Church leaders throughout the region have stressed grassroots reconciliation and culturally sensitive engagement as foundations for sustainable stability.
Strengthened Ties with Italy
Beyond geopolitical matters, the bilateral meeting also highlighted enduring cooperation between the Holy See and Italy. Discussions included shared priorities such as family support, education, disability inclusion, and prison reform.
The anniversary of the Lateran Pacts thus served as both a diplomatic commemoration and a reaffirmation of collaboration in promoting human dignity and social justice.
While declining formal participation in the Board of Peace, the Holy See continues to pursue its distinctive moral diplomacy — advocating dialogue over confrontation, multilateral cooperation over fragmentation, and a vision of peace grounded in justice and the inviolable dignity of every human person.