Pope Francis unveils Vatican law on reporting child sex abuse
https://thehill.com/policy/international/436548-pope-signs-new-law-penalizing-child-sex-abuse-in-vatican-embassies
Pope Francis on Friday signed a law making it mandatory for Vatican officials and diplomats in its embassies and missions worldwide to immediately report sexual abuse of minors.
โThe protection of minors and vulnerable persons is an integral part of the Gospel message,โ Pope Francis said in his Apostolic Letter. โTherefore, we all have the duty to generously welcome minors and vulnerable people and to create a safe environment for them, taking their interests first.โ
Besides mandating superiors and co-workers to report any abuse allegations they become aware of, the law also punishes those who fail to report on any misconduct with dismissal, fines or jail and offers assistance to victims and their families. The new rule also includes protections for adults.