The Vatican remains a vital actor in global politics due to its unique blend of moral authority, religious identity and diplomatic infrastructure. Despite lacking traditional hard power, it influences international relations through principled neutrality and a global network of diplomatic missions. The Vatican promotes norms rooted in Catholic social teaching – such as peace, human dignity and forgiveness – and has shaped global discourse on issues like debt relief, religious freedom and human rights. Under Pope Leo XIV, it continues to offer mediation in conflicts including the Russia–Ukraine war, emphasising its role as a neutral and moral voice. While its political impact is uneven, its symbolic interventions – such as papal visits, encyclicals and public appeals – often shift global attention and policy. By combining state diplomacy with ethical responsibility, the Vatican represents a living tradition that adapts to modern challenges while advocating for a vision of international politics grounded in justice and peace.
Read the whole article here: 10.1080/00396338.2025.2588958