Pope Declines Trump’s Invitation to Join ‘Board of Peace’

By Rachel Akper

The Pope Leo XIV has declined an invitation from former U.S. President Donald Trump to participate in a proposed international body known as the “Board of Peace,” according to officials of the Vatican.

Vatican diplomats confirmed that the Holy See would not be part of the initiative, citing concerns over the structure, mandate and broader diplomatic implications of the proposed body. The decision was reportedly communicated through senior Vatican officials responsible for foreign relations.

The initiative, promoted by Trump, is intended to support peacebuilding efforts and reconstruction initiatives, particularly in conflict-affected regions such as Gaza. However, Vatican officials indicated that complex international crises are better addressed through established multilateral institutions, including the United Nations.

Diplomatic observers note that the Vatican traditionally favours neutral, multilateral approaches to global conflicts and humanitarian issues, often working quietly through international organisations rather than politically driven coalitions.

While declining formal participation, the Vatican reiterated its continued commitment to global peace efforts, interfaith dialogue and humanitarian assistance in conflict zones.

The development has sparked international discussion about the role of religious institutions in geopolitical initiatives and the effectiveness of alternative peace frameworks outside established global bodies.