The Vatican City

Vatican City, established through the Lateran Treaty of 1929, operates as a distinct sovereign entity under international law, separate from but closely linked to the Holy See, which governs the Roman Catholic Church. A significant legal evolution is highlighted by the promulgation of a new Fundamental Law in 2001 and its replacement by the Law on the Government of the Vatican City State in December 2018, effective June 7, 2019. This study provides a concise overview of the political and legal structure of Vatican City, emphasizing its unique status as both an independent state and a spiritual institution with enduring international recognition.

Hartley, C. (2021). The Vatican City. The International Directory of Government 2021, 726–727. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003179931-192