The latest financial statements showed the Vatican- the world's smallest country - ran an operating deficit of 83 million euros (£69m) in 2023, five million more than in 2022. One key reason for the deficit is a collapse in donations from Catholic Churches around the world, as well as from the public. Donations are one of three major sources of income for the Vatican, along with monies received from real asset assets and museum entry fees. Many Catholics have stopped their donations after growing disillusioned with the reforms of Pope Francis.