Vatican's Abuse Responsibility Far Larger Than Known, Secret Files Show

BERLIN — Secret investigation documents reveal the Vatican's culpability in sexual abuse cases is substantially greater than publicly acknowledged, according to Correctiv's global investigation.

The German investigative outlet obtained confidential files showing Joseph Ratzinger—later Pope Benedict XVI—played a significant role in handling abuse cases during his tenure as prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

Key findings:

• Vatican responsibility for abuse cases extends beyond previously disclosed incidents
• Ratzinger's involvement in specific abuse file decisions documented in secret materials
• Investigation spans multiple jurisdictions globally

Correctiv's reporting suggests systematic patterns in how the Vatican processed abuse allegations internally, with decision-making concentrated in Ratzinger's office during his 24-year leadership (1981-2005).

Experts cited in the investigation are now demanding access to Vatican secret archives to verify the full scope of institutional knowledge and decision-making around abuse cases.

The report adds pressure on the Vatican following decades of abuse scandals and Pope Francis's limited reforms to Church accountability structures. Benedict XVI died in December 2022 without facing external investigation into his handling of abuse cases.

Status: Developing — Full investigation details being released by Correctiv.

Source: Correctiv, March 20, 2026