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By Amir Daftari
News Reporter
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Survivors of clergy sexual abuse and their supporters are urging the Vatican to adopt the same zero-tolerance policy for priestly misconduct that has been in place in the U.S. Catholic Church since 2002.
The U.S. norms, implemented in the wake of a major abuse scandal, mandate the permanent removal of a priest after a single substantiated act of sexual abuse.
Survivors argue that this policy, approved by the Holy See, should be extended globally to ensure equal protection for children worldwide.
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"Despite Pope Francis' repeated calls for zero tolerance on abuse, his words have yet to lead to any real action," said Gemma Hickey, a transgender survivor and president of the global survivor network Ending Clergy Abuse. Survivors contend that the U.S. standards, though not perfect, represent a necessary baseline for global implementation.
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Call for Action After Historic Meeting
The proposal follows a June meeting in Rome between survivors and top Catholic officials specializing in abuse prevention.
Described as a "historic collaboration," the gathering included the Rev. Hans Zollner, head of the Vatican's safeguarding think tank; Bishop Luis Manuel Ali Herrera, deputy leader of the child protection advisory board; and the Rev. Ulrich Rhode, dean of canon law at the Gregorian University.
The discussions also involved diplomats from countries including the U.S. and Australia. However, notable absences included representatives from the Vatican legal office and the discipline section of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, the body that oversees abuse cases worldwide.
Without their involvement, it remains uncertain whether the proposed policy changes will gain traction.
Resistance to Uniform Punishments
The Vatican has shown reluctance to impose a universal zero-tolerance policy, emphasizing "proportionality" in sentencing and accounting for cultural differences in how abuse is addressed globally.
Critics argue this approach has led to lenient punishments for clergy in confirmed abuse cases.
In contrast, the U.S. "one strike and you're out" policy arose under intense public and financial pressure, including scrutiny from insurers.
Survivor groups are calling for similar measures worldwide, citing the Holy See's prior approval of U.S. norms as precedent.
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Challenges Ahead for Reform
Extending the policy globally faces significant obstacles. Advocates argue that the Vatican must prioritize protecting children over cultural considerations, yet some church leaders remain hesitant.
Survivors point to systemic issues in canon law and secretive proceedings that shield abusive clergy.
Pope Francis has repeatedly condemned abuse but has not advanced universal zero-tolerance measures.
Survivors and advocates, however, continue to press for meaningful reforms, hoping their calls for justice will lead to lasting change.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press
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