A 2022 document by the Biden Administration reveals the close collaboration between the United States and the Holy See on sensitive issues such as political influence, the financing of religious organizations and the alignment in global policies.
The report, Integrated Country Strategy Vatican, details how the US embassy before the Holy See has established strategic agreements with the Vatican to promote the US schedule at the international level. Among the main objectives include the fight against human trafficking, the defense of human rights and mediation in international conflicts. However, behind these purposes, a strong economic investment and a strategy of diplomatic influence are hidden.
One of the most striking data in the document is the budget for the U.S. Embassy in the Vatican. According to the approved strategy, the U.S. government allocated $1.2 million to maintain its presence at the Holy See, in addition to a budget of $17,700 for representation.
The report also mentioned collaborations with Catholic organizations and NGOs linked to the Vatican, which raise significant funds from USAID (United States Agency for International Development). Through these alliances, the US seeks to channel resources to strategic sectors such as humanitarian aid, immigration and health care in key countries.
Another highlight in the strategy is the use of the Vatican’s half-reprain to amplify messages aligned with US foreign policy. According to the document, the embassy maintains close relations with journalists and half-filled Vatican news, with the aim of countering the information of the actors such as Russia and China.
In addition, the strategy seeks to use the image of Pope Francis to legitimize policies on issues such as climate change and human rights. The Biden administration identified the pontiff’s stance on the environment as an opportunity to pressure governments and businesses for stricter climate change measures.
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