Pope Leo XIV enacts new constitution for Vatican City State

Pope Leo XIV enacted a new constitution for Vatican City State on Friday, superseding the 2023 version issued by his predecessor, Pope Francis. Vatican officials stated the changes are intended to address evolving administrative needs and significant legislative shifts over recent years.

A key alteration concerns the presidency of the Governorate of Vatican City State. In 2025, Pope Francis appointed Sister Raffaella Petrini as the first woman and first non-cardinal to lead this body, which oversees the Vatican's daily operations. While the 2023 law allowed non-cardinals on the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State (to which the Governorate president is automatically appointed and legislative power is delegated), the presidency itself was reserved for a cardinal. The new constitution removes this restriction, acknowledging that the president need not be a cardinal.

Furthermore, the constitution reinforces the independence of Vatican courts and establishes protocols for financial administration and other state procedures. Ultimate legislative, executive, and judicial authority remains vested in the Pope as the head of Vatican City State.

This marks the fourth constitution since Vatican City's inception in 1929. The first was adopted following the Lateran Treaty with Italy that year and remained in effect until 2000, when Pope John Paul II introduced a new fundamental law. It is important to note that Vatican City State and the Holy See are distinct entities under international law, both headed by the Pope. The Holy See serves as the central episcopal jurisdiction for Catholics worldwide, while Vatican City State was established to ensure the Holy See's independence and sovereignty in international affairs.