Sport Diplomacy of the Holy See during the Pontificate of Pope Francis

Ощипок, Іван Федорович (2026) Sport Diplomacy of the Holy See during the Pontificate of Pope Francis Вісник Донецького національного університету імені Василя Стуса. Серія Політичні науки. (11). pp. 120-127. ISSN 2617‐0248

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Abstract

The article examines the Holy See’s sports diplomacy as an innovative instrument of public diplomacy and a strategic tool for implementing soft power, which gained particular significance during the pontificate of Pope Francis. The relevance of this field reflects shifts in global Catholicism, particularly its growing presence in the countries of the Global South, reinforcing the need for universal diplomatic instruments, including sports diplomacy. It demonstrates that the unique international-legal status of the Vatican as a microstate with limited resources necessitates specialized forms of foreign policy activity, among which sport has become an effective instrument for humanitarian engagement and shaping the Holy See’s international standing. Under Pope Francis, sports diplomacy was institutionalized: dedicated structures were established, interdepartmental coordination intensified, and participation in global sports initiatives aimed at peacebuilding, inclusion, and social cohesion expanded. The evolution of the Catholic Church’s cultural and sports diplomacy is explored, highlighting the shift from primarily amateur forms to systematic engagement in international federations and humanitarian projects. Special attention is given to the concept of «Christian sport» as a normative foundation for the Holy See’s diplomatic activity, representing the values of solidarity, dignity, cooperation, and moral responsibility, while also serving as a communicative resource in the global arena. Key Vatican initiatives are analyzed, including the establishment of Athletica Vaticana, development of sports-humanitarian programs, and cooperation with international organizations. The study shows that sports diplomacy extends beyond the religious sphere, emerging as a politically relevant and strategically significant instrument of public diplomacy that ensures the Holy See’s presence in global humanitarian discourse, shapes its positive image, and enhances its capacity to influence global social and cultural processes.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	sports diplomacy; public diplomacy; cultural diplomacy; Holy See; Vatican; Christian sport; soft power; Pope Francis
Subjects:	Статті у періодичних виданнях > Фахові (входять до переліку фахових, затверджений МОН)
Divisions:	Факультет суспільно-гуманітарних наук > Кафедра політології та соціології
Depositing User:	доцент Іван Федорович Ощипок
Date Deposited:	18 May 2026 13:16
Last Modified:	18 May 2026 13:16
URI:	https://elibrary.kubg.edu.ua/id/eprint/57445

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