The doctrinal note "Una Caro" published by the Vatican The document published on November 25, 2025, vigorously defends monogamy as a fundamental and universal principle of marriage. Released on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, it reaffirms that marriage is an exclusive, intimate, and all-encompassing union between two people. It is a response, in particular, to African demands surrounding polygamy, but also to contemporary forms of non-monogamy such as polyamory, emphasizing the importance of mutual belonging and "one flesh" in the marital relationship.
A contemporary response and a strong context
The publication of Una Caro comes at a time when monogamy is increasingly being challenged by polygamous practices, still prevalent in some African cultures, as well as by the rise of polyamory in Western societies. The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, under the leadership of Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, sought to reiterate that the authentic marital relationship is based on total emotional exclusivity, a mutual belonging that transcends a mere social contract or practical arrangement. This exclusivity is presented as a good that protects the dignity of each spouse, particularly that of women, who are often vulnerable in polygamous or multi-partner relationships.
The publication date was not chosen at random: November 25th is both the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and the wedding anniversary of the Quattrocchi couple, the first married couple beatified by the Church. The message is clear: monogamy is a protection and a celebration of dignity and of legality between spouses, as opposed to explicit or psychological violence linked to unbalanced relationships.
Monogamy as an exclusive and all-encompassing union
The heart of the message in the note "Una Caro" is the biblical and anthropological concept of "one flesh": marital unity is a relationship so intimate that it can only be shared between two people. This union implies a mutual, all-encompassing, and respectful belonging that excludes any form of sharing with other partners. Marriage is not simply cohabitation; it is a union of body and soul that must mature and grow within loyalty and reciprocity.
The text emphasizes the importance of a healthy balance, distinguishing between intimate belonging and undue possessiveness. It warns against relationship ills such as excessive jealousy, manipulation, and violence, while rejecting rigid patriarchal models and advocating for flexible marital roles where each partner can flourish. Monogamy is also presented as a union of equality and dignity, where neither partner is used merely as a means to satisfy personal needs.
Marital sexuality is emphasized as a unifying expression that should remain open to life, but not necessarily procreative in every act. This view, influenced in particular by John Paul II and Paul VI, integrates the spiritual and bodily dimension of marriage, rejecting a purely utilitarian or hedonistic approach to marital intimacy.
Theological Foundations and Pastoral Impact
The note relies on essential biblical references (Genesis, Song of Songs) and recalls traditional doctrinal teachings, particularly those of the popes Leo XIIIPius XI, Paul VI and John Paul IIto justify monogamy as the basic principle of marriage. She clarifies that it is not indissolubility that is being addressed here, but rather the exclusivity of a faithful loving relationship, a good deeply inscribed in human nature and in Christian revelation.
From a pastoral perspective, "Una Caro" aims to provide clear guidance to the faithful and pastors confronted with relationship practices that fragment or trivialize marital bonds. The document places particular emphasis on protecting women from the often unequal and violent consequences of polygamous or polyamorous relationships. It reiterates that true freedom within a couple is rooted in loyalty and mutual respect, and that monogamy protects the dignity of each in an authentic relationship of total self-giving.
