Vatican employees protest outsourcing, financial cuts amid economic crisis
VATICAN CITY — The Association of Lay Vatican Employees (ADLV) raised alarms about recent financial and structural changes within the Holy See.
In a document released by the group, concerns are expressed regarding personnel spending cuts and outsourcing policies that are perceived to undermine employee stability and the traditional values of working for the Vatican.
The document criticizes measures such as the freeze on promotions, new hires, and overtime pay, noting that these have not significantly improved the Vatican’s financial situation. Additionally, the ADLV questions the potential impacts of an upcoming salary reform on pensions, highlighting unease about the future financial security of Vatican employees.
Outsourcing and privatization spark discontent
A major point of contention is the Vatican’s shift towards outsourcing and privatization, which the ADLV describes as a “radical change.” This approach is seen as transforming the Vatican from a “small community inspired by the values of the Gospel into a business.”
Specific examples include the management of Vatican real estate by Italian agencies, investments primarily handled by American companies, and the anticipated management of the Vatican supermarket Annona by a well-known Italian brand.
The ADLV questions why internal resources are not being better utilized, as employees become “increasingly demotivated and confused.” The document concludes with a warning that “discontent is growing mercilessly” among local workers.
Economic crisis prompts drastic measures
These concerns arise amid the Vatican’s acknowledgment of a severe economic crisis, which has prompted Pope Francis to implement drastic financial measures. Just last month, the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA) announced that it would outsource the management of its properties to the real estate company Tecnocasa by the end of 2024.
This move is part of the Vatican’s efforts to stabilize its finances. However, it has also fueled fears among employees about the potential erosion of job security and the traditional values that have long defined the Vatican’s working environment.
The ADLV’s document underscores the growing discontent among employees who feel that their roles and contributions are undervalued in the face of these sweeping changes.
