SNAP leaders travel to Rome to prepare survivors for future papal conclave

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 12, 2025

Rome, Italy - The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) announces that key members of its leadership team are currently in Rome launching a rigorous review of cardinals considered contenders for the papacy. While in Rome, SNAP officials, alongside international coalition partners, researchers, and other experts, will focus on each candidate’s record in handling clergy sexual abuse cases—both in their home countries and within the Vatican hierarchy. 

“For too long, the Catholic church has prioritized secrecy and protection of its own over justice for survivors and the safety of children,” said Peter Isely, Global Policy Chair of SNAP. “As discussions about the next pope persist, we are making it clear that survivors and advocates will not accept a leader who has enabled abuse or shielded perpetrators. Any candidate for the papacy must demonstrate a commitment to a universal zero tolerance law for abuse.”

Representing SNAP in Rome are:

• Shaun Dougherty, SNAP President

• Peter Isely, SNAP founding member and Chair of the SNAP Global Policy Working Group

• Sarah Pearson, SNAP Communications and Media Team 

SNAP’s groundbreaking work, in collaboration with the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR), successfully brought the Vatican before international legal bodies like the United Nations and the International Criminal Court (ICC) and resulted in the first-ever case against the pope and the Vatican for crimes against children.

During this critical period in the health of Pope Francis and heightened speculation surrounding the future leadership of the Catholic church, SNAP representatives are available for interviews, meetings, and commentary throughout their stay in Rome. Media representatives seeking to connect with SNAP's leadership team for abuse survivors’ perspectives or further information are encouraged to reach out.