The Holy See in contemporary geopolitics: ‘value’ diplomacy and spiritual power

Abstract

Within the sphere of international diplomacy, it is essential to highlight the unique position of the Holy See as a subject of international law and its diplomatic evolution from the Lateran Pacts of 1929 to the present day. Its dual sovereignty—both spiritual and territorial—legitimizes its role in bilateral and multilateral relations. The Popes, from John XXIII to Francis, have played a pivotal role in promoting peace, safeguarding human rights, and defending religious freedom. Likewise, the Holy See is distinguished by its “diplomacy of values,” free of territorial ambitions, as it confronts contemporary challenges.