Vatican Museums employees file legal action against the pope for improved conditions and treatment

In a bold move, forty-nine employees of the Vatican Museums have come together to file a class-action complaint against the Vatican administration, demanding better seniority, leave, and overtime benefits. This public challenge to Pope Francis’ governance was made public in Italian newspapers over the weekend, highlighting the employees’ concerns about health and security risks they face due to cost-saving measures at the museum.

The complaint, dated April 23, also raised issues of overcrowding and reduced security guards, which have put the staff and visitors at risk. Despite reaching out to the Vatican spokesman and Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga for comment, there has been no response so far.

This legal challenge sheds light on the discrepancies between Vatican laws and Italian and European norms, as Vatican employees, especially lay Italian citizens, have limited legal recourse within the city-state’s justice system. The employees, represented by veteran Vatican attorney Laura Sgro, emphasized the importance of respecting the dignity of workers, citing the social teaching of the Catholic Church and Pope Francis’ own appeals.

Among their demands are better transparency in career advancement, restoration of seniority bonuses, and adherence to Italian norms on sick days. The Vatican administration has 30 days to respond to the complaint, after which negotiations may ensue. However, if talks fail, the employees may have limited options for further recourse.

The Vatican Museums, a significant revenue source for the Vatican, have faced financial challenges due to COVID-19 closures and restrictions. The employees’ class-action complaint brings to light the need for fair treatment and respect for workers’ rights within the Vatican’s governance structure.