Pope Francis Takes Sweeping Measures to Reform Vatican Procurements, Mandates Compliance with Laudato Si’ Principles in Landmark Motu Proprio

Pope Francis Implements Radical Changes in Vatican Procurements

In a groundbreaking move, Pope Francis has introduced a comprehensive set of measures, contained in a motu proprio, to revolutionize Vatican procurements.

This initiative, which comes in the wake of experiences gained in recent years, aims to enhance the application of Vatican financial reforms and uphold transparency, control, and fair competition in the awarding of public contracts.

Time-Bound Approvals and Key Amendments

The first motu proprio mandates the Secretariat for the Economy to respond to procurement requests within 30 days, emphasizing that non-response equates to approval.

This time-bound process adds efficiency to the approval mechanism, streamlining the administrative procedures for procurement.

Over 90 Articles Encompassing Vatican Procurement Regulations

The second motu proprio, comprising over 90 articles, dives into the intricate details of Vatican regulations on procurements.

It addresses the entire spectrum of processes involved in acquiring and purchasing goods and services within the Vatican, ensuring a comprehensive overhaul of existing practices.

Pope Francis’ Vision for Financial Reforms and Environmental Compliance

In Pope Francis’ introduction to the motu proprio, he underscores the need for an update based on the “experience gained in recent years.”

The amendments, aligned with the principles of the social doctrine of the Church, the canonical order of the Holy See and Vatican City State, and the encyclical letter Laudato Si’, aim to integrate sustainability and environmental responsibility into the fabric of Vatican financial operations.

Codifying Laudato Si’ Principles into Vatican Law

A significant inclusion in the amended regulations is the codification of compliance with Pope Francis’ landmark environmental encyclical, Laudato Si’, into the law.

This mandates the sustainable use of internal funds, transparency in procurement, and equal treatment among bidders, all in accordance with the principles outlined in Laudato Si’.

Papal Signature Seals the Changes

Pope Francis formally signed the motu proprio on procurements on Nov. 27, 2023, at St. Peter’s Basilica, emphasizing the urgency and commitment to financial reform.

Additionally, a letter addressing extraordinary spending was signed on Jan. 6 from the Vatican, further solidifying the papal endorsement of these groundbreaking changes.

A Rome Correspondent’s Insight: Courtney Mares Reports for Catholic News Agency

Courtney Mares, a Rome Correspondent for Catholic News Agency and a Harvard University graduate, provides her insight into this historic development.

Having reported from news bureaus on three continents and recognized with the Gardner Fellowship for her work with North Korean refugees, Mares sheds light on the significance and global implications of Pope Francis’ financial reforms.