The leading candidates in line to be the next pope include:
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin : The Vatican's Secretary of State since 2013, Parolin is widely seen as the frontrunner. He is a seasoned diplomat with experience in Venezuela, Nigeria, and Mexico, known for his moderate stance and focus on democracy and human rights. He is considered capable of handling complex geopolitical challenges and is viewed as a natural heir to Pope Francis' legacy
- Cardinal Matteo Zuppi : Archbishop of Bologna and a close ally of Pope Francis, Zuppi is considered a continuity candidate who could cement Francis' legacy. He is known for his social service work and was appointed by Francis as his peace envoy for Ukraine. His ties to the influential Sant’Egidio community give him an edge
- Cardinal Péter Erdő : Archbishop of Budapest, Erdő is a traditionalist who aligns more with the conservative views of John Paul II and Benedict XVI. He opposes communion for divorced or remarried Catholics and blessings for gay couples. He is respected across ideological lines and could be a unifying figure, but his election might be seen as a rejection of Francis' legacy
- Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle : From the Philippines, Tagle is seen as a progressive candidate with a leadership style similar to Pope Francis. He advocates for social justice and a compassionate approach to LGBTQ+ individuals and divorcees. If elected, he would be the first Asian pope, representing the growing Catholic population in Asia
- Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost and Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson are also mentioned among possible contenders, with Turkson noted for his experience in global church affairs
- Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa : Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, known for bridging divides in the Middle East and managing financial crises. He is seen as a compromise candidate but his relative youth and lower profile might work against him
The conclave of about 135 cardinal electors will meet in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel to elect the new pope, and the process is highly secretive and unpredictable. Campaigning is frowned upon, and the choice often surprises observers, as happened with Pope Francis in 2013
. In summary, Cardinal Pietro Parolin is currently the leading favorite, with Cardinal Matteo Zuppi and Cardinal Péter Erdő also strong contenders, while Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle represents a significant possibility for a non- European pope
