 Pope Francis strengthens laws on child abuse July 11, 2013 - 21:24 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Pope Francis has strengthened laws on child abuse that apply to clerics and lay people working in the Vatican. The papal decree broadens the definition on crimes against minors to include sexual abuse of children, BBC News reported. Earlier this year, Pope Francis said that dealing with sex abuse was vital to the Church's credibility. The decree also increases the Vatican's international co-operation in combating crimes, and raises penalties for those who leak official papers. The BBC's David Willey in Rome says Pope Francis's order continues a process started by his predecessor Benedict XVI, aimed at bringing the Vatican into line with modern international norms. The Vatican's legal system closely follows that of Italy, but given the special nature of the city state set up in 1929, there has until now been more emphasis on legal exemptions rather than on law enforcement, our correspondents adds. The updated legislation covers more than 5,000 clergy and lay people who live and work in the Vatican - and is different from the canon law which covers the universal Catholic Church.   Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads.   Partner news |  Latest news Former Pashinyan envoy urges end to Genocide speculation  Marukyan has urged authorities in Armenia stop discussions about verifying the names of 1.5 million victims.First Canadian expert join EU mission in Armenia The first Canadian expert to join the European Union’s civilian mission in Armenia has arrived in Armenia.Armenian cemetery in Fresno hit by arsons six times since January Six total incidents have burned 19 old-growth trees. Friday night 8 trees were torched along the beautiful main entrance.Iran vows to “decisively” defend sovereignty, national interests The Iranian embassy in Armenia has defended its “defensive and proportional action in in occupied Palestine.” |
