(ZENIT News / Rome, 28.08.2024).- Over the last months, a profound anxiety has gripped Vatican employees, who question the true nature of their work and sense of belonging to a community that, traditionally, has been distinguished for its spiritual and social values. Far from being a simple work force, the Vatican’s employees have been considered for a long time as members of a “special family,” where work is not only a duty, but an expression of dignity and service inspired in Catholic Doctrine.
However, the picture has changed drastically. The implementation of the Motu Proprio “Fidelis Dispensator et Prudens” has focused the Vatican’s attention on economic efficiency, something that, although necessary, has generated concern among its workers. This reform seeks to optimize the Holy See’s financial management, linking it directly with its global mission and common wellbeing. Nevertheless, many employees feel that this restructuring is sacrificing essential principles, such as social justice and respect for human dignity.
One of the most controversial aspects of this reform has been the process of outsourcing and privatization of services that, historically, were handled internally. Areas such as cleaning, reception and even the management of real estate assets have been hand over to external companies, which has generated a feeling of uprooting among workers, who see how the business culture is beginning to eclipse the spirituality that once defined their work environment.
Moreover, the lack of transparency in financial results and the absence of dialogue with the employees has fuelled an atmosphere of uncertainty. The cut in benefits as well as the suspension of the biennium, which has seriously affected pensions and liquidations, and the possible salary reform have caused a growing concern. The Vatican’s Workers Association expressed its disagreement with these measures, especially in face of the Authorities’ lack of clear communication.
The discontent has been manifested in different ways, including a recent “class action” initiated by employees of the Vatican Museums, who feel that their rights and wellbeing are being ignored. The growing outsourcing has been a particular point of concern, given that, in addition to affecting the workers directly, reflects a radical change in the Vatican’s management philosophy.
The future of this transformation continues to be uncertain. The employees wait anxiously for clear answers before the General Assembly, which will take place next September 25, when it is hoped these anxieties will be addressed. Meanwhile, the Vatican’s labour community finds itself at a crossroads, trying to reconcile its spiritual mission with the realities of a management that is increasingly guided by economic criteria.
This situation poses a fundamental question: Where is the Vatican going with these reforms? For the time being, the answer is still up in the air, while concern grows among those that dedicate their life at the service of the Apostolic See.
