Pope Francis' Legacy in the Eradication of Abuse

Yesterday at 7:35 a.m., Pope Francis passed away. The Catholic Christian community, alongside individuals from across the political spectrum and various religious and philosophical traditions, have expressed their respects for one of the most transformative figures in the contemporary history of the Catholic Church. Pope Francis not only revitalized ecclesial structures but also advanced key reforms initiated by his predecessor, particularly in addressing corruption and confronting the sexual abuse of minors within the Church.

In his final Urbi et Orbi address past Sunday, he emphasized the enduring importance of the message of peace: “Where there is no religious freedom or freedom of thought and speech, nor respect for differing opinions, peace is not possible.” This assertion resonates with the foundational principles of this online newspaper, which has consistently upheld the value of pluralism and respectful coexistence as essential conditions for the flourishing of human life in all its dimensions.

Among his most consequential contributions was his resolute response to the sexual abuse of minors within the Church. He prioritized the acknowledgment of survivors and took decisive steps to dismantle the entrenched culture of silence surrounding such abuses.

From the outset of his pontificate, Pope Francis demonstrated an unwavering commitment to confronting the crisis of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church, with particular emphasis on prevention, accountability, and institutional transparency. In 2014, he established the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, an advisory body comprising lay experts and survivors, with the objective of fostering a global culture of safeguarding and prevention within the Church. Furthermore, he mandated that every diocese implement specific mechanisms for the reception of allegations and the support of victims.

On the juridical front, Pope Francis enacted significant reforms. In 2019, he promulgated the motu proprio Vos Estis Lux Mundi, which established the obligation to report abuse, including cases involving bishops and instances of cover-up by ecclesiastical superiors. In the same year, he abolished the application of pontifical secrecy in cases of sexual abuse, thereby enhancing cooperation with civil authorities and representing a critical advancement in institutional transparency. Moreover, he reinforced canonical procedures for investigating and sanctioning members of the hierarchy who failed to fulfill their responsibilities.

Beyond legal and structural reforms, Pope Francis initiated a cultural transformation within the Church. He met personally with survivors, publicly engaged in acts of reparation, and called for a reformation of priestly formation, placing emphasis on affective maturity and the prevention of abusive behaviors. His holistic approach integrated normative changes, institutional accountability, and a sincere commitment to recognition and reparation.

The progress achieved within the Church under his leadership underscores the imperative for continued action in other societal institutions.  For instance, now is necessary to go beyong and including those sucessful actions that achieves the better results,  such as the Club of Brave People Zero Violence and the dialogic model of abuse prevention—as well as assertive stances against isolating gender-based violence—constitute vital strategies in the broader effort to eradicate abuse in all forms. Pope Francis advanced these efforts as a moral and institutional leader, and for this reason, he will be remembered with profound respect and gratitude for many survivors of CSA, believers and not believers, but aknowledging the efforts done breaking the silence and promote safer spaces for supporting victims and persons who support them.