Italy's Catholic abuse survivors demand end to cover-up

Francesco Zanardi was just 11 when he began suffering years of abuse by a priest in northern Italy. Decades later, he founded Rete L'ABUSO, a network exposing clerical abuse and demanding accountability from the Italian Catholic Church.

Despite over 1,250 alleged cases and more than 1,000 accused priests, Italy's bishops have never referred a case to justice, citing no legal obligation. Cultural resistance and lack of transparency persist, even as Pope Leo XIV has urged decisive action. Survivors are still waiting for real change.