Overview

• Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at age 88, leaving the Catholic Church in a period of interregnum until a new pope is elected.
• The conclave, expected to begin in approximately two weeks, will involve 135 cardinal electors under the age of 80, 110 of whom were appointed by Francis.
• Speculation surrounds potential frontrunners, including Cardinals Pietro Parolin, Matteo Zuppi, Luis Antonio Tagle, and Peter Erdő, though historical patterns suggest an unpredictable outcome.
• The conclave will follow centuries-old traditions, with cardinals sequestered in the Sistine Chapel and voting in secret until a candidate achieves a two-thirds majority.
• Pope Francis' global appointments and emphasis on marginalized regions may influence the selection, reflecting his vision of a more inclusive and international Church.