Holy See Says No to Trump's “Board of Peace,” Reaffirms Commitment to UN-Led Multilateralism

The Holy See will not participate in the proposed “Board of Peace,” reaffirming its distinctive diplomatic identity and its longstanding commitment to multilateralism centered on the United Nations.

The position was articulated by Cardinal Pietro Parolin during a bilateral meeting with the Italian Government marking the anniversary of the Lateran Pacts. 

The talks took place at Palazzo Borromeo, seat of Italy’s Embassy to the Holy See, in the presence of Italian President Sergio Mattarella and senior officials from both sides.

Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the meeting, Cardinal Parolin explained that the Holy See’s decision stems from “its particular nature, which is evidently not that of other States.”

While welcoming efforts aimed at addressing global crises, he noted that certain aspects of the proposed Board of Peace raise unresolved questions. “There are points that leave us somewhat perplexed,” he said, underscoring that such initiatives require clarity and coherence within the broader international system.

UN at the Center of Global Peace Efforts

The Vatican’s principal concern, Cardinal Parolin emphasized, is that the management of international conflicts should remain primarily within the framework of the United Nations.

“At the international level, it should above all be the UN that manages these crisis situations. This is one of the points on which we have insisted,” he stated.

For decades, the Holy See has advocated for multilateral diplomacy rooted in international law and inclusive dialogue. Its diplomatic practice favors universally recognized institutions rather than parallel mechanisms that could risk fragmenting global peace efforts.

Ukraine: A War Without Breakthrough

As the fourth anniversary of the war in Ukraine approaches, Cardinal Parolin expressed deep concern over the absence of meaningful progress toward peace. Continued attacks on energy infrastructure in Kyiv and other cities have compounded humanitarian suffering.

“There is considerable pessimism,” he acknowledged, lamenting that after four years of conflict, tangible advances remain elusive.

The Holy See has consistently called for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian corridors, prisoner exchanges, and sustained dialogue between the parties, while urging the international community to prioritize human life over political calculations.

Peace as a Moral and Spiritual Task

In recent addresses, Pope Leo XIV has reinforced the Church’s vision of peace as more than a diplomatic arrangement. Authentic peace, he has said, must be rooted in justice, reconciliation, and a “conversion of heart.”

In his message for the World Day of Peace, the Holy Father cautioned against the logic of military blocs and escalating rivalries. He called instead for “a patient diplomacy of encounter” — one that places the dignity of every person at the center of negotiations.

Pope Leo has repeatedly drawn attention to the plight of civilians in war zones, especially children, the elderly, and displaced families. He has urged governments and international actors to ensure that humanitarian protection is never subordinated to geopolitical interests.

Implications for Asia’s Fragile Peace Landscape

For Asia, the Holy See’s stance carries particular resonance. The continent faces a complex web of security challenges — from maritime disputes in the South China Sea to instability in Myanmar, tensions on the Korean Peninsula, and interreligious strains in parts of South and Southeast Asia.

In many Asian contexts, peace-building is inseparable from social justice, economic inclusion, interfaith dialogue, and respect for minority rights. 

Church leaders across the region have frequently emphasized culturally sensitive dialogue and grassroots reconciliation as foundations for lasting stability.

By reaffirming the centrality of the United Nations and principled multilateralism, the Holy See signals support for frameworks that ensure smaller and developing nations — many of them in Asia — have an equal voice in shaping global peace processes.

Strengthened Ties with Italy

Beyond global security concerns, the bilateral meeting also highlighted strong relations between the Holy See and Italy. Cardinal Parolin expressed gratitude for cooperation on issues central to the Church’s social mission, including support for families, education, disability inclusion, and prison reform. Several working groups involving the Italian Bishops’ Conference continue to advance these efforts.

The anniversary of the Lateran Pacts thus served not only as a diplomatic milestone but also as a renewed commitment to collaboration in promoting human dignity and social justice.

While declining formal participation in the Board of Peace, the Holy See continues to exercise its moral diplomacy — advocating dialogue over confrontation, multilateral cooperation over fragmentation, and a peace that is just, inclusive, and anchored in the inviolable dignity of every human person.