Overview

• The Catholic Church is set to convene a conclave of 135 cardinal electors in the coming days to select Pope Francis's successor after his passing at age 88.
• Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines is a prominent contender, with his progressive pastoral approach and potential to become the first Asian pope.
• Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's chief diplomat, is also seen as a strong candidate, valued for his geopolitical expertise and leadership during global crises.
• Francis's papacy emphasized inclusivity, with many cardinal appointments from under-represented regions, though Europe still holds the largest voting bloc.
• The conclave's decision will weigh the Church's shifting demographics, particularly Catholic growth in Asia and Africa, against traditional European influence.