Pope Leo XIV enacts new fundamental law for Vatican City

Pope Leo XIV has promulgated a new fundamental law for Vatican City, the world's smallest state, establishing a revised constitution that supersedes the one enacted by his predecessor, Francis, in 2023. This updated "Fundamental Law for the State of Vatican City" comprises 25 articles and aims to align the functions of its state institutions with evolving circumstances over the past years, while also defining the rights and jurisdictions of these bodies. The Vatican press office released the new law. One of the most significant reforms concerns the leadership of the Papal Commission, the central legislative body of the Vatican state. Previously, the presidency was exclusively reserved for cardinals. However, the new regulation resolves a gray area that emerged in March 2025 when Sister Raffaella Petrini, an ordained nun, began leading the Governorate, and by extension, the Commission. The constitution now formally confirms that Petrini is eligible to head the small nation's official state administration. Beyond stipulations for financial management and other state operational procedures, the new fundamental law emphasizes the independence of Vatican City's courts. These judicial bodies have handled several extensive criminal cases in recent years, involving allegations of fraud and embezzlement amounting to millions. The previous fundamental law was issued by Pope Francis on May 13, 2023, and Pope Leo XIV made minor amendments on November 19, 2025.