Overview

• The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) released whistleblower documents alleging Pope Leo XIV mishandled clergy abuse cases over decades.
• SNAP claims abuse cases in Chicago and Peru were improperly addressed under Pope Leo XIV's leadership, including allowing accused priests to remain near children.
• The group is advocating for a global zero-tolerance canon law to permanently remove abusive clergy and criminalize cover-ups.
• The Vatican and the Archdiocese of Chicago maintain that Pope Leo XIV acted in accordance with church policies and expressed compassion for survivors.
• The allegations have reignited debates over the Catholic Church's accountability and the need for uniform global reforms to address clergy abuse.