Ten years after its establishment, the Vatican's Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors released its first report on clerical sexual abuse on Tuesday. The report has been criticized by victims’ advocates for lacking independent verification and being ineffective in promoting accountability among bishops.
Since the clerical abuse scandal gained widespread attention two decades ago, the Catholic Church has struggled to implement effective measures globally to prevent abuse and hold the hierarchy accountable for any cover-ups. The commission was formed in 2014 to advise Pope Francis on safeguarding minors and vulnerable adults from sexual abuse by clergy.
The report highlighted that while some countries showed a commitment to safeguarding, others exhibited a concerning lack of support for abuse victims. It recommended improved disciplinary measures and economic compensation for survivors. Cardinal Sean O’Malley, president of the commission, referred to the report as indicative of the Church's journey towards transparency and accountability, while acknowledging that much work remains to be done.
Victims’ advocates expressed disappointment with the report, arguing that it fails to provide the transparency they seek. Anne Barrett Doyle, a long-time tracker of clergy abuse, stated that the report would likely create a false impression that the Church is effectively protecting children.
Critics likened the bishops’ reports to mere assignments submitted without serious examination, calling for zero tolerance for clerics who abuse or cover up abuse. They noted that compliance with church laws remains weak.
The commission has faced criticism regarding its mandate, capabilities, and funding, leading to the resignation of several high-profile members. Cardinal O’Malley stated that the report marks a departure from a "dark period" in the Church’s history, urging for a new chapter with uniform standards.
The report included key recommendations, such as better disciplinary actions for clerics who have not been removed despite being guilty of abuse or cover-up. It emphasized the need for public apologies and compensation for survivors.
Additionally, the report acknowledged limitations due to "time and capacity constraints," stating that it was not intended to audit the incidence of abuse but to assess policies and mechanisms for safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. It identified challenges such as cultural barriers to reporting abuse and the prioritization of the Church’s reputation over survivor support.
The report also called for increased transparency from the Vatican's doctrinal office and recommended comprehensive training on safeguarding for seminary staff, as well as psychological assessments for aspiring priests.
A Vatican spokesman indicated that additional reports would follow annually, but advocates criticized the findings as too broad and lacking in detail regarding individual abuse cases. Juan Carlos Cruz, a commission member and abuse survivor, acknowledged the report's incompleteness but emphasized it as a foundational document for future development.
Cruz noted the need for improved data collection and transparency, stating that while the report may not satisfy everyone, it represents an initial step towards accountability.