Piotr Kowalczuk – Vatican
Wisdom and Moral Principles
The Pope wrote in his message that the session’s theme is particularly important now, as it attempts to reflect on the exercise of power, which is fundamental for building peace in individual countries and among nations at a time of profound global changes. He recalled that “according to Catholic social teaching, power cannot be an end in itself. It must be a means in the pursuit of the common good.” This means that the legitimacy of power is not based on economic or technological might, but on the wisdom and moral principles of its exercise, which are inextricably linked. Leo XIV indicated that justice and courage are the foundations for making good decisions and implementing them.
Democracy and Moral Law
“Authentic democracy – the Pope noted – respects the dignity of every person and calls every citizen to responsible participation in the pursuit of the common good.” He also recalled the words of St. John Paul II that the Church values democracy because it ensures everyone’s participation in political choices, can hold rulers accountable or replace them with others.
“Democracy is healthy – Leo XIV pointed out – only when it is rooted in moral law and a true vision of the human person. Deprived of these foundations, democracy can become a tyranny or a mask for the domination of economic and technological elites.”
International Relations
The Pope emphasized that international relations and the international order should be based on the same principles. “This is particularly important at a time when strategic rivalry and a shift in the balance of power are reshaping world relations.” He indicated that stable international relations cannot be based solely on a balance of power or purely technocratic logic. He warned that “the concentration of military, economic, and technological forces in a few centers poses a threat to democracy and international agreements.” He pointed to the need to create a global fraternal community, quoting similar appeals from St. John Paul II and Pope Francis.
Peace is not a temporary absence of conflicts
Leo XIV wrote that at a time when earthly powers threaten peace, hope must be placed in the Kingdom of God: “From the perspective of faith, God’s omnipotence is expressed in mercy and forgiveness. God’s power does not dominate, but heals and restores.” Leo XIV indicated that this logic of mercy should animate history, and human action, inspired by mercy, should help build an “earthly city” of unity and peace.
Finally, the Pope expressed hope that the work of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences will help build a global culture of reconciliation and peace, which does not mean the absence of conflicts, but is the fruit of justice and power, understood as service to people around the world.
