Professor Hans Zollner, SJ, Delivers Lecture on Safeguarding and the Prevention of Abuse

Organised by the Centre for the Promotion of the Well-being of Vulnerable Persons at the Catholic University of Croatia, a lecture by Prof. Hans Zollner, SJ—Director of the Institute of Anthropology at the Pontifical Gregorian University and one of the leading experts in safeguarding and abuse prevention in the Church—was held on Wednesday, 22 April 2026. The lecture was titled “Safeguarding: Experiences of Abuse, Systemic Challenges, and Emerging Perspectives.”

He opened his presentation by outlining four fundamental dimensions: spirituality, (inter)culturality, transparency, and personal responsibility. He addressed experiences of abuse within both ecclesial and broader social structures, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of systemic challenges and institutional accountability. He stressed that safeguarding goes beyond prevention and security measures, encompassing the creation of safe spaces, relationships, and processes that respect the dignity of every person.

Particular attention was given to the evolving understanding of vulnerability—from a focus primarily on child protection to a broader perspective that includes adults, such as women, migrants, persons with disabilities, and other socially vulnerable groups. He also highlighted that abuse is not limited to sexual violence but includes psychological, emotional, and spiritual forms, as well as abuse of power and violence in digital environments.

Addressing global challenges faced by the Church, he underscored the importance of transparency, accountability, and the willingness to confront past failures. He called for a shift in mindset—from denial and passivity toward active engagement, solidarity with victims, and the integration of safeguarding into all dimensions of the Church’s mission.

In conclusion, he emphasized that protecting the dignity of every person is a fundamental responsibility of both the Church and society, requiring an ongoing process of learning, spiritual renewal, and shared responsibility among all members.