Pope Francis Orders Vatican to Reopen Abuse Case Against Priest Marko Ivan Rupnik, Lifts Statute of Limitations

Rupnik's case, previously dismissed due to the age of the allegations, is to be re-evaluated; the unprecedented decision follows criticism of the Church's initial handling of claims and its failure to provide adequate support for victims.

Pope Francis has ordered the Vatican to reopen the case of priest-artist Father Marko Ivan Rupnik, previously dismissed due to the age of the allegations, and removal of statue of limitations has been ordered.
The handling of the Rupnik case has been criticised, particularly for the 'lack of outreach to victims.' Francis' abuse prevention commission flagged the handling of the case as having 'serious problems.'
Rupnik was previously declared excommunicated by the Vatican in May 2020 for absolving a woman whom he had sexually engaged with through confession, but the excommunication was lifted within weeks, and Rupnik continued his activities.
Despite multiple women accusing Rupnik of sexual, psychological and spiritual abuses dating back 30 years, the Jesuit order expelled Rupnik not for allegations of abuse, but for his 'stubborn refusal to observe the vow of obedience.'
Victims' pleas heightened when a Slovenian diocese publicly welcomed Rupnik following his expulsion from the Jesuits, stating he was presumed innocent due to lack of documentation regarding any conviction.