Speaking on Wednesday, October 14, in Washington, D.C., Archbishop Juan Antonio Cruz Serrano called for enhanced international collaboration to combat transnational organized crime. Addressing the Fifth Meeting of National Authorities on Transnational Organised Crime as the Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the Organisation of American States (OAS), Archbishop Cruz Serrano outlined three core priorities: centering security strategies on human dignity, reinforcing global cooperation, and prioritizing prevention for vulnerable populations.
Drawing from Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical Magnifica humanitas, the Archbishop warned of the severe societal harm inflicted by non-state criminal networks that profit from violence. He emphasized that organized crime is not simply an abstract threat to state security, but a direct assault on human dignity and the common good. Highlighting the human toll—such as victims of trafficking, youth lured into illicit networks, and families displaced by violence—he insisted that security measures must strictly adhere to the rule of law and respect fundamental rights, noting that emerging technologies like artificial intelligence must remain subject to ethical human oversight.
To counter networks that cross borders, Archbishop Cruz Serrano pressed for stronger judicial, police, and financial cooperation across legal systems. A crucial aspect of this effort, he explained, involves targeting illicit financial flows that allow criminal organizations to corrupt institutions and expand their reach. By disrupting these financial pipelines, nations can weaken the institutional influence of organized crime and better uphold state stability.
Finally, the Holy See stressed the urgent need to protect minors and young people from digital exploitation. Archbishop Cruz Serrano raised concerns over growing online risks—including cyberbullying, grooming, coercion, and the distribution of child abuse material—and urged governments to implement protective measures alongside digital literacy education. Concluding his address, he expressed hope that the OAS assembly would foster lasting international partnerships to build more just, peaceful, and supportive societies.