Cardinal Parolin: Ending wars requires moving beyond domination and tackling inequality

Vatican News

In a wide-ranging interview published on the 4th of October, in the Italian newspaper la Repubblica, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Holy See's Secretary of State, examines the situation in several regions of the world affected by violence and conflict. Having returned from the United Nations General Assembly in New York, he reiterates that ending wars requires moving beyond “the logic of domination and putting an end to inequalities”.

The crisis of multilateralism

Cardinal Parolin reflects on the crisis of multilateralism, which, in his view, is generating “widespread pessimism, which was also palpable at the UN”. Nevertheless, he takes away one positive aspect from the gathering: the “repeated calls for a return to the principles of international law”.

This can happen, he explains, provided that—as Pope Leo XIV stresses in Magnifica humanitas—fundamental human values are once again embraced universally, and all those involved in international affairs reaffirm their political will.

He adds that the loss of mutual trust is the principal cause of this crisis: “Only a process of continuous reform, capable of assessing the effectiveness of current structures in the light of changing circumstances, can bring about a renewed and fit-for-purpose multilateralism.”

From Iran to Gaza, deep concern

Turning to the situation in the Gulf, the Cardinal expresses his deep concern, “above all for the price paid by the civilian population”. He says he is closely following indirect contacts, hoping they may provide an opening, given that talks have failed to produce a “lasting” solution.

His concern also extends to the humanitarian situation in Gaza, which “remains extremely difficult”. He describes the reopening of the Latin Patriarchate’s school, which welcomes around a thousand students, as nothing short of a “miracle”: “a sign of hope that the Church wishes to offer to everyone”.

Ukraine: a real tragedy

In Ukraine, the Secretary of State continues, “a real tragedy” is unfolding. The approaching winter adds to his concern: “A people cannot be denied the right to defend itself.”

At the same time, Cardinal Parolin reiterates that the Holy See considers it necessary “to bring hostilities to an end, and therefore encourages every initiative aimed at achieving an immediate, comprehensive and effective ceasefire”.

He concludes by reaffirming the Vatican’s willingness to help “in any way”, stressing that its overriding concern is strict adherence to international law amid intensifying attacks that are killing innocent people.

“A long-term solution requires a renewed commitment to security and cooperation in Europe.”