Pope Leo XIV repeals Vatican salary cuts

Pope Leo XIV has issued a papal decree repealing salary reduction measures originally implemented by Pope Francis in 2021. These cuts were introduced as cost-saving measures to address the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, including a structural deficit and a significant pension fund shortfall.

The repealed provisions included a 10% salary reduction for cardinals serving in the Curia, an 8% reduction for certain high-ranking officials and heads of dicasteries, and a general 3% reduction for other employees. While some amendments were made in 2025, the new decree officially brings these containment measures to an end.

In the decree, Pope Leo stated that while the previous measures were necessary to confront the exceptional challenges of the pandemic, they can now be overcome. He emphasized that the Holy See and Vatican City State remain committed to economic sustainability through other means.

Additionally, Pope Leo issued a separate decree ordering the construction of a new building within Vatican City State to house excess holdings from the Vatican Apostolic Archive and the library, reversing previous plans to move these collections out of the city.