Pope introduces new rules to hold bishops accountable for sexual abuse

Pope Francis introduced sweeping changes in Catholic Church law on Thursday to hold bishops accountable for sexual abuse or covering it up, making reporting obligatory for clerics and allowing anyone to complain directly to the Vatican if needed. The papal decree, which covers abuse of both children and adults, also obliges every Roman Catholic diocese in the world to set up simple and accessible reporting systems and encourages local churches to involve lay experts in investigations.