POPE FRANCIS has issued a new decree to ensure transparency in the Vatican’s public contracts and “to reduce” the danger of corruption.
The Holy See published on June 1 an apostolic letter in the form of an edict that will guide the Vatican City State and the See of Rome in governing contracts and public works.
In his letter, Pope Francis said the set of rules “aimed at fostering transparency, control, and competition.”
He said the promotion of “a competitive and loyal contribution” will enable a “better management” of resources.
“The global economy and increased interdependence have brought to the fore the possibility of achieving significant cost savings through the work of multiple suppliers of goods and services,” noted the pontiff.
“These possibilities must be used above all in the management of public goods,” he said, adding that “the need for a faithful and honest administration is even more keenly felt and urgent.”
Pope Francis stressed that “beyond those of individuals or particular interests,” the administrator is called upon to take “responsibility for the interests of a community.”
The new decree is in compliance with the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, which the pontiff said has “principles and rules that inspire conduct and show the experience of the various states.”
“It is useful to refer to this normative patrimony, with its related ‘good practices,’ while keeping in mind the fundamental principles and aims of the canonical order and the peculiarity of that of Vatican City State,” the letter read.
The pontiff’s decree is composed of 86 articles and an additional 12 articles that tackle juridical protection in cases of litigation.
The order also imposed strict restrictions against conflict of interests, illegal competition agreements, and corruption to avoid “any distortion of competition and ensure equal treatment of all economic operators.”
The new decree will come into force 30 days after publication.
