Overview

• The conclave officially opened on May 7, 2025, with 133 cardinals under age 80 sworn in to elect the next pope following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.
• Strict security measures, including signal-blocking technology and oath-bound confidentiality, are in place to ensure secrecy during the deliberations in the Sistine Chapel.
• Front-runners for the papacy include Pietro Parolin, an Italian diplomat, and Luis Antonio Tagle, a Filipino cardinal, reflecting ideological and geographic considerations.
• Cardinals have emphasized the need to continue Francis's priorities, such as addressing abuse prevention, promoting economic transparency, and advancing environmental and peace initiatives.
• The first smoke signal is expected later today, with black smoke indicating no decision and white smoke signaling the election of the new pope.