Against the backdrop of ongoing financial challenges at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV has approved new rules aimed at strengthening transparency and efficiency in the awarding of public contracts, Vatican News reported Aug. 9.

The decree, issued Aug. 5 by the Secretariat for the Economy and signed by Prefect Maximino Caballero Ledo, is the first major step in carrying out the 2024 motu proprio To Better Harmonize.

The updated regulations took effect Aug. 10 and build on procurement reforms first introduced in 2020, according to the outlet. They set out clear requirements for competitive bidding, oversight, and equal access for qualified contractors, while also aiming to cut through unnecessary bureaucracy.

Vatican News said the policy was shaped through cooperation among multiple departments. The text explains that the changes are meant to safeguard fairness and accountability, ensure resources are used responsibly, and uphold Catholic social teaching in financial matters. The code is designed to protect transparency and oversight while also making administrative processes more efficient. It requires impartial treatment of bidders, prohibits discrimination, and encourages cost-effective spending. 

Vatican News noted that the approach aligns with the Apostolic Constitution Praedicate Evangelium, which reorganized the Roman Curia to focus on mission-driven governance. 

Issued by Pope Francis in 2022, the Praedicate Evangelium overhauled the Curia’s structure and operations, emphasizing accountability, service to the global Church, and responsible stewardship of resources.

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