Rome, 20 January 2022 (dpa/MIA) - The Vatican has said it will closely examine a German report that details allegations of sexual abuse in the archdiocese of Munich and Freising over decades. "In reaffirming the sense of shame and remorse for the abuse committed by clergy against minors, the Holy See assures all victims of its closeness and confirms the path taken for the protection of the smallest ones by guaranteeing them a safe environment," Holy See spokesperson Matteo Bruni said in a statement. The report, published on Thursday, accuses Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and other top cardinals of misconduct in relation to the sexual abuse. Benedict, who served as archbishop of Munich and Freising between 1977 and 1982, has been living in a monastery at the Vatican since his resignation as pope in 2013.