Vatican Declines Trump’s “Board of Peace” Proposal, Emphasizes Role of Global Cooperation
A major diplomatic invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump placed the Vatican at the center of global attention—but the response from Pope Leo XIV has now made headlines of its own. As world leaders debate new ways to address ongoing international conflicts, the Pope’s decision reflects a deeper message about how peace should be pursued. Rather than joining the newly proposed “Board of Peace,” the Vatican has chosen a different path, one rooted in longstanding principles and international cooperation, highlighting a careful and thoughtful approach during a time of global uncertainty.
President Trump recently introduced the “Board of Peace,” describing it as a new international body designed to help resolve major conflicts and oversee efforts toward stability and development in regions facing crisis, including the Gaza Strip. Early details indicated that participating countries would contribute financially and work together under the structure to guide peace initiatives. While some nations expressed support, others declined the invitation, raising questions about how the organization would operate and how it would fit alongside existing global institutions.
After reviewing the proposal, Vatican officials confirmed that Pope Leo XIV would not participate. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, explained that the Holy See believes international conflicts involving humanitarian concerns are best addressed through established organizations—especially the United Nations—rather than through newly created structures led by individual governments. The Vatican emphasized that peace efforts are most effective when built on broad international cooperation, shared responsibility, and balanced diplomatic engagement.
The decision reflects the Vatican’s consistent position on global diplomacy and humanitarian issues. Pope Leo XIV has repeatedly stressed the importance of protecting human dignity and encouraging dialogue among nations. By declining the invitation, the Vatican did not reject the goal of peace, but instead reaffirmed its belief that lasting solutions are more likely to emerge through collective international frameworks. As debates continue over how best to resolve global conflicts, the Vatican’s response highlights the ongoing balance between innovation and tradition in the pursuit of lasting peace.