Pope Francis issues new law to combat corruption in the Vatican Staff, including senior clerics, must refuse gifts exceeding €40 Fri, Apr 30, 2021, 08:23 Pope Francis, pictured this week, has introduced new measures to target corruption at the Vatican . Photograph: Vatican Media via Getty
In an effort to fight corruption in the highest ranks of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis issued a sweeping new decree on Thursday compelling top managers at the Vatican, including cardinals, to provide full financial disclosures and to refuse any gifts worth more than roughly €40. In taking aim at matters both large and small, from real estate holdings and investments to work-related gifts given to any Vatican employee, Francis said his goal was to bring the church into accord with best financial practices to ensure transparency and fight corruption.