Pope seeks crackdown on sex abuse

Pope Francis is calling for the Catholic Church to act “with determination” against clergy sex abuse cases.

The pope pushed for decisive action during a meeting with the prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith, Bishop Gerhard Ludwig Mueller, the Vatican said in a statement.

“The Holy Father recommended that the congregation continue the line sought by Benedict XVI, to act with determination in regard to cases of sexual abuse,” the Vatican said.

Francis cited measures to protect minors, help victims of sexual violence and necessary action against perpetrators, and emphasise that drafting and implementing directives by bishop conferences around the world is important to the credibility of the church.

The Pontiff has asked for "stepped-up measures to protect minors and help those who were subjected to such violence in the past".

US victims of clergy abuse have demanded swift and bold actions from the new Jesuit pontiff.

The Vatican said it continues to receive around 600 claims against abusive priests every year, many of them dating back to the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.