Pope Leo XIV has promulgated the new statutes of the Pontifical Academy for Life, updating the regulatory framework of the body created by St. John Paul II in 1994 for the defense and promotion of the value of human life and the dignity of the person.
According to Vatican News, the text bears the signature of the Pontiff dated February 27, 2026, and replaces the statute promulgated in 2016. The document has also been published in the Holy See Bulletin, where its structure, competencies, and functioning are detailed.
Defense of Life and Scientific Mission
The new statute reaffirms that the Academy, headquartered in Vatican City State, has as its main purpose the defense and promotion of the value of human life and the dignity of the person, as established by the Motu Proprio Vitae Mysterium of February 11, 1994.
Among its specific tasks, the interdisciplinary study of issues related to human life is emphasized, training in a culture of life in full fidelity to the Magisterium of the Church, and clear and timely information to ecclesiastical authorities, scientific institutions, and civil society about the results of its research.
The text further specifies that the Academy performs a function of a primarily scientific nature, promoting respect for the dignity of the person in all stages of existence and defending the inviolability of human life from conception to natural death.
New Figure of Collaborators
One of the novelties introduced is the incorporation of the figure of collaborators—designated in the Bulletin as “Sostenitori”—persons who, identifying with the institutional aims, contribute to the development of the Academy’s activities. Their appointment corresponds to the Executive Council, with the prior approval of the Secretariat of State, for a period of three years renewable up to two additional terms.
The statute establishes that the Academy consists of the Presidency, the Central Office, the Members or Academics, and the Supporters. Ordinary members can be up to seventy, are appointed by the Holy Father for a five-year term, and can be renewed until they reach 80 years of age. Honorary members, corresponding members, and young researchers are also provided for.
Structure and Governance
The Presidency is composed of the President, the Chancellor, and the Executive Council, in addition to an Ecclesiastical Counselor when appropriate. The President is appointed by the Pope and officially represents the Academy, directing its activities and reporting to the Holy Father.
The Executive Council, made up of six counselors designated by the Pontiff along with the President and the Chancellor, defines the general lines of action and approves the study and training programs.
The statute also provides for cooperation with the Dicasteries of the Roman Curia, especially the Secretariat of State and the Dicastery for the Laity, Family, and Life.
Doctrinal Guarantees and Disciplinary Regime
The document establishes that academics must promote and defend the principles relating to the value of human life in accordance with the Magisterium of the Church. The possibility of revoking membership status is foreseen in case of public statements or actions contrary to these principles or gravely offensive to the dignity and credibility of the Church.
Likewise, institutional political positions are incompatible with active membership in the Academy.
Validity for Five Years
The statute has been approved for a period of five years and enters into force immediately after its promulgation. Leo XIV has ordered its publication in L’Osservatore Romano and subsequently in the Acta Apostolicae Sedis.