ROME — Two online meetings held in April between the Latin American and Caribbean Episcopal Council (CELAM) and the Commission marked a further step in strengthening regional collaboration on safeguarding and the promotion of a culture of care across Latin America and the Caribbean.

The meetings were organised within the framework of the Latin American and Caribbean Network for a Culture of Care, which brings together safeguarding commissions and related ecclesial bodies from countries throughout the region. The discussions focused on reinforcing institutional cooperation, accompanying local Churches, and supporting the continued development of safeguarding initiatives adapted to local realities.

The first meeting took place online on 15 April and included Fr Eric García, Deputy Secretary of CELAM; Fr Pedro Brassesco, coordinator of the Network; and Susana González Rea, the Commission’s regional expert for the Americas. Participants reviewed the ongoing collaboration between CELAM and the Commission and explored new opportunities for joint work in the region.

During the meeting, representatives presented the history and development of the Network since its establishment in 2022 under the auspices of CELAM. The Network has developed as a platform for formation, exchange, and collaboration among Episcopal Conferences and safeguarding bodies across Latin America and the Caribbean, supporting the growth of prevention initiatives within diverse ecclesial contexts.

Participants also reflected on the Commission’s mission and current priorities through its three principal areas of work: Guidelines, the Annual Report, and the Memorare Initiative. The discussion considered how these pillars can continue to support safeguarding efforts and capacity-building at the local level.

Particular attention was given to the Commission’s participation in the annual meetings of the Network, which were described as important opportunities for mutual learning and regional collaboration. González Rea reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to accompany local Churches and organisations through dialogue, listening, and cooperation grounded in local realities.

The meeting also addressed the work of the Network’s coordinating team, composed of regional representatives alongside members of CELAM, the Latin American Confederation of Religious (CLAR), and Caritas Latin America and the Caribbean. Participants discussed future possibilities for institutional collaboration, including the co-promotion of formation initiatives and the finalisation of a memorandum of understanding between CELAM and the Commission.

A second meeting was held on 24 April with the coordinating team of the Network and representatives from different regions of Latin America and the Caribbean. During the session, González Rea and Fr Agustín Jara Podestá, liaison with CLAR, presented the Commission’s safeguarding priorities and outlined the scope of its work in the region.

The meeting also focused on preparations for the Fourth Regional Meeting of the Network, scheduled to take place in Brasília from 1 to 3 September 2026. Participants additionally reviewed recent initiatives, including a regional online forum and the development of a dedicated section for the Network on the CELAM website.

Subsequent discussions identified a number of challenges and opportunities for continued collaboration, while participants shared questions and reflections aimed at strengthening trust, coordination, and shared responsibility among ecclesial bodies throughout the region.

Both meetings concluded with a renewed commitment to deepen cooperation between CELAM and the Commission in support of local Churches, the strengthening of safeguarding capacities, and the promotion of a culture of care across Latin America and the Caribbean.