The Holy See has formally declined an invitation to participate in U.S. President Donald Trump’s newly formed “Board of Peace,” distancing itself from the initiative despite outreach earlier this year to Pope Leo XIV.
The Vatican’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, announced the decision, explaining that the Holy See would not take part due to the specific structure and nature of the body, which he indicated differs from traditional state-based international institutions.
The “Board of Peace” was initially presented as a mechanism to oversee temporary governance arrangements in Gaza following the most recent conflict. However, President Trump has since expanded its scope, stating that the board — which he chairs — would address broader global conflicts.
While confirming the Vatican’s decision not to join, Cardinal Parolin emphasized that the United Nations remains the primary institution mandated to manage international crises. He noted that the Holy See continues to support multilateral frameworks already in place, suggesting that certain institutional concerns would need clarification.
The move comes amid evolving dynamics between the Vatican and Washington. Since assuming office, Pope Leo XIV — the first American pontiff — has publicly voiced criticism of some of President Trump’s policies, though the Vatican maintains its longstanding position of diplomatic neutrality in global political disputes.
The Board of Peace was unveiled during the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, Switzerland, in January. According to organizers, at least 19 countries have signed its founding charter, including Argentina, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Meanwhile, Italy and the European Union have indicated that they will attend proceedings as observers rather than full members.
The Vatican has not ruled out dialogue on peace initiatives but reiterated that its diplomatic efforts remain aligned with established international mechanisms.
Source: Africa Publicity
