Rights
The 2023 Fundamental Law and absolute papal sovereignty
Vatican City State is governed by a Fundamental Law promulgated in 2023, replacing the 2000 text. The Pope holds the fullness of legislative, executive and judicial power, delegating administration to the Pontifical Commission and Governorate.
Key rules
- Full legislative, executive and judicial power is vested in the Supreme Pontiff.
- The Pontifical Commission exercises delegated legislative power and the Governorate administers.
- The Holy See is the sovereign subject of international law, distinct from the territorial state.
Governing law
- Fundamental Law of Vatican City State (2023)
- Lateran Treaty (1929)
In practice
Treating the Holy See and Vatican City State as interchangeable is the most common error: diplomatic relations are with the Holy See, while territorial law belongs to the State.