From 16 to 19 June 2026, I had the privilege of taking part in the international safeguarding conference One Commitment, Many Contexts: Safeguarding Across Cultures, organised by the Institute of Anthropology (IADC) at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. The conference brought together 300 participants from 60 countries across all continents: religious, bishops, laypeople, researchers and professionals committed to the protection of minors and vulnerable adults, as well as those with lived experience.
The central theme was how safeguarding is a universal mission, but must always be shaped within the cultural, social and ecclesial context of each country. The conference made it clear that effective safeguarding is only possible when universal principles are combined with respect for local culture, without losing sight of the safety and dignity of victims.
A recurring theme was that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Procedures and guidelines are necessary, but must always be applied with an understanding of the local situation. What works well in one country may require a different approach elsewhere. At the same time, cultural differences must never be used as an excuse to conceal abuse or fail to provide victims with adequate protection.
During the various lectures and workshops, the following topics, amongst others, were discussed:
- the influence of culture on the way people talk about abuse;
- power imbalances and abuse of authority;
- the responsibility of church leaders;
- the need for transparency and accountability;
- the role of formation and continuing education;
- cooperation between religious institutions, dioceses and civil society organisations;
- care for victims and a trauma-sensitive approach.
Particularly valuable were the testimonies of participants from Africa, Asia, Latin America, Europe and Oceania. Although the challenges often differ, the shared commitment to a safe Church proved to be a strong unifying force. Listening to one another’s experiences provided new insights and demonstrated the importance of international cooperation.
The conference emphasised that safeguarding is not a separate project, but an essential part of evangelical life and good governance. It requires a culture in which respect, responsibility, integrity and care for the most vulnerable are taken for granted.
For religious institutes, this means that safeguarding requires constant attention. Policy documents alone are not enough. Ongoing training is needed, along with a culture of openness where people feel able to speak out, clear procedures, and leaders who are prepared to take responsibility. Prevention begins with creating a safe community in which everyone feels heard and respected.
For me personally, this conference was inspiring and encouraging. The international exchange confirmed that many religious institutes face the same challenges, but also that there is a great deal of expertise and commitment worldwide. I return with new ideas, valuable contacts and a renewed conviction that safeguarding is a shared responsibility of the whole Church.
The conference has once again made it clear that safeguarding is never ‘complete’. It is an ongoing process of learning, listening, improving and working together. Only in this way can we truly contribute to a Church in which every person is safe and treated with dignity.
Sr. Marjolein Bruinen op
