Abstract:
In recent years, the Holy See has been called upon to address the systematic and
epidemic clerical child sexual abuse that has affected children worldwide. However, in spite of the
egregious human rights violations that have occurred under the auspices of the Vatican, the Holy
See continues to prioritize protection of church’s reputation and impunity of the perpetrators.
Policies such as priest shifting and interference with civil investigations have allowed sexual abuse
of children to continue. Thus, the Holy See is not in compliance with its legal obligations under
the Convention on the Rights of the Child to act in the best interests of the child and protect children
from sexual abuse.