Holy See diplomacy

Archbishop Gallagher explains Holy See diplomacy engages with political leaders regardless of their positions.

“Speaking to them is not the same as endorsing them or everything they do”

No commercial interests

Unlike other states, Holy See lacks commercial pursuits, trade agreements, or foreign investment.

Pope's voice

The Pope serves as Holy See's chief diplomat with unique authority to advocate for the poor and defenseless.

“The Holy See does not possess weapons or infantry, divisions or battalions, but it does have the voice of the Holy Father, which cries out for the poor, the needy and the defenceless”

Patience in conflict

Diplomatic progress requires patience, as time is measured in lives and human suffering during crises.

“In so many situations time is measured not in hours or days or weeks, but in lives and in human suffering”

Peace beyond dialogue

Archbishop Gallagher stresses that peace must flourish, not just be kept alive through dialogue.

“Keeping the dream of peace alive is not enough, and that the goal must be for peace to flourish”

International law

Holy See defends international law as the surest way to prevent conflict through 'might is right' logic.

“A system based in law is the surest way to prevent the collapse of the international community into a logic of 'might is right'”

Christian hope

Despite setbacks, Holy See diplomacy remains sustained by Christian hope for peace.

“Even when it seems that the dream of peace is being just about kept going through life support and intensive care, we do not lose hope”