Hans Zollner, a prominent member of the Vatican commission tasked with combating sexual abuse of minors within the Catholic Church, has resigned. This has sparked renewed debate over the effectiveness of the controversial commission, which was created in 2014. The president of the commission, American Cardinal Sean O’Malley, announced that Zollner had requested to be relieved of his duties, and the pope accepted his resignation on March 14th. While Zollner cited his recent appointment as a consultant for the Diocese of Rome as the reason for his resignation, he also expressed concerns about dysfunction within the commission.
In a statement posted on Twitter, Zollner criticized the lack of clarity in the commission’s selection process for members and staff, inadequate financial responsibility, and insufficient communication about decision-making. He emphasized the importance of protecting children and vulnerable individuals and argued that these structural and practical issues prevented him from continuing his mission. Francesco Zanardi, the president of the Italian victims’ association Rete l’abuso, suggested that the Vatican may have pressured Zollner to resign because of his critical views.
The commission, which is composed of religious and lay experts, has faced harsh criticism since its creation. Two of its members resigned in 2016 and 2017, citing a lack of cooperation in the Vatican. Despite measures taken by the pope, such as lifting the papal secrecy on sexual violence by the clergy and the obligation to report cases, victim associations believe that concrete actions to combat abuse remain insufficient.