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Pope Leo XIV Urges Ethical, Law‑Bound Conduct by Italy’s Intelligence in Centenary Address

The appeal follows parliamentary revelations about government spyware targeting NGO leaders.

Overview

  • The pontiff told Italy’s Security Intelligence System that security work must never override human dignity or individual rights.
  • He warned that confidential material must not be used to intimidate, manipulate, blackmail or discredit politicians, journalists or civil‑society actors.
  • He called for activities to be regulated by law, subject to judicial oversight, and transparent in financial governance, with actions proportionate to the common good.
  • He cautioned against misinformation and online manipulation in a data‑saturated era and said churches in several countries have been targeted by improper intelligence operations.
  • He praised intelligence contributions to national security and the protection of the Holy See, and he honored personnel who died on missions.