Vatican Declines Participation in U.S.-Led ‘Board of Peace’ Initiative

The Holy Witness will not participate in the newly established international ‘Board of Peace,’ citing its distinct nature compared to other nation-states. The announcement was made by Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, on February 18, 2026.

Concerns Over International Crisis Management

Speaking on the sidelines of a bilateral meeting in Rome with the Italian Government commemorating the anniversary of the Lateran Pacts, Cardinal Parolin expressed reservations about the Board of Peace’s structure and role in international crisis management. He emphasized the importance of the United Nations as the primary body responsible for addressing global conflicts. Vatican News reported on the Cardinal’s statements.

Lateran Pacts Anniversary and Italian Relations

The meeting with the Italian Government, also attended by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, celebrated the 1929 Lateran Pacts, which formally established relations between the Holy See and Italy. Cardinal Parolin highlighted the strong cooperation between the Vatican and Italy, particularly on social issues such as family support, education, assistance for the disabled, and prison reform. Vatican News

Background on the ‘Board of Peace’

The ‘Board of Peace’ was initially proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump in September of the previous year as part of a broader peace plan for Gaza. Trump envisioned the board as an international transitional body that he would chair. Crux Now reports that the first meeting is scheduled for Thursday in Washington, D.C. Trump has reportedly requested a $1 billion contribution from member nations, with several countries, including Israel, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt, having accepted. However, several European allies have declined to participate, citing concerns about the board potentially undermining the authority of the United Nations.

Ongoing Concerns Regarding Ukraine

Cardinal Parolin also addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, expressing concern over the continued hostilities as the war approaches its fourth anniversary. He noted the recent attacks on energy infrastructure in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, lamenting the lack of substantial progress toward peace. “There doesn’t seem to be any real progress for peace on one side or the other, and it’s tragic that after 4 years nothing has been resolved,” he stated, expressing limited optimism about ongoing dialogue efforts. Vatican News

Cardinal Pietro Parolin

Pietro Parolin, born January 17, 1955, currently serves as the Vatican’s Secretary of State, a position he has held since 2013. He was created a Cardinal by Pope Francis in 2014. Wikipedia