As an international family of social justice organisations, CIDSE rejoices in the official nomination of Sister Alessandra Smerilli, F.M.A., as Prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, as announced by Pope Leo XIV today, succeeding Cardinal Michael Czerny, S.J. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Sister Smerilli on this well-deserved recognition of her remarkable dedication, expertise, and service to the Church’s social mission.
We also wish to express our deep gratitude to Cardinal Michael Czerny, S.J., for his years of close collaboration with CIDSE and his humble, tireless service to the most fragile and forgotten communities. His witness of love and solidarity has left a lasting mark on the Church’s social mission.
Sister Smerilli brings to this role a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to justice, solidarity, and integral human development. Her leadership, theological vision, and expertise in political economy and international affairs have made, and will continue to make, a lasting contribution to the Church’s engagement with the most pressing challenges of our time.
CIDSE also takes this opportunity to congratulate Pope Leo XIV on this appointment. It reflects a clear vision for the Church’s social mission and a firm commitment to placing the promotion of integral human development at the heart of the Holy See’s priorities. CIDSE is grateful for the Holy Father’s continued guidance and leadership on issues of justice, care for creation, and the protection of the most marginalised.
“As a woman leader in the Church, Sister Alessandra has already been an inspiration to so many of us and will continue to be a model for young women around the world.“, added Josianne Gauthier, CIDSE Secretary-General.
CIDSE looks forward with great hope to this new chapter of collaboration with the Dicastery. We cherish the partnership we have built over the years and remain firmly committed to deepening it under Sister Smerilli’s leadership, in service of a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world for all.
“The nomination of an experienced and respected leader like Prof. Smerilli, will help the Vatican in its response to a world in turmoil, with peace under threat and international law questioned.“, concluded Bernd Nilles, CIDSE President.
CIDSE offers its heartfelt partnership and congratulations in this confirmed mission going forward. The Dicastery can continue to count on CIDSE’s continued friendship and partnership in this shared mission to promote greater human dignity and ecological justice.
See here also an article by Vatican News on the new appointments.
Cover picture: CIDSE Executive Committee Meeting in Rome in 2026 with Sister Alessandra Smerilli at the center. Credits: CIDSE.