The Pilot Annual Report on Safeguarding by the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors was published on Tuesday 29th October 2024.  The Report details the progress as well as the existing gaps in Safeguarding procedures and protocols. Read the complete Report through the link https://www.tutelaminorum.org/annual-report/

The Annual Report gives the Commission an opportunity to report its findings and recommendations on a systematic basis — to be shared with the Holy Father, victims/survivors, local Churches, and all the People of God.  The Report begins with the Commission’s main findings and observations:

1. The need to better promote victims’/survivors’ access to information, to address the concern of opaque canonical processes as a source of re-traumatisation. Measures should be explored that provide the right of any individual to information relating to him/her, especially the circumstances and responsibilities related to their case of abuse — with due regard to data protection laws and requirements.

2. The need for a holistic approach to the definition and enforcement of vulnerability in the Church’s safeguarding provisions. A more uniform definition of vulnerability must be developed. To help in this pursuit, experience gained through the exercise of judicial functions should be shared, with a level of detail sufficient to promote coherent and uniform juridical outcomes, in all areas of the world.

3. The need for consolidation and clarity around the jurisdictions held by dicasteries of the Roman Curia, to ensure the efficient, timely, and rigorous management of cases of abuse referred to the Holy See.

4. The need for a streamlined process for discharge from office, to enable a smooth and simple pathway for the resignation or removal of a Church leader, when warranted.

5. The need to further develop the Church’s magisterium on her safeguarding ministry, to promote conversion within the Church regarding child dignity and human rights in relation to abuse. This must be through a unified and theological-pastoral vision.

6. The need to study damages and compensation policies to promote a rigorous approach to reparations, as part of the Church’s commitment to the healing journey of victims/survivors.

7. The need to promote the professionalisation of safeguarding in the Church, by providing formal academic opportunities and adequate resources for aspiring safeguarding practitioners.