Overview

• The conclave will begin May 7, 2025, with 133 cardinal-electors under age 80 participating after two withdrew for health reasons.
• Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday, appointed 108 of the electors, significantly influencing the ideological and geographic makeup of the College of Cardinals.
• The electorate reflects increased global diversity, with only 39% of electors from Europe and significant representation from Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Africa, and North America.
• Top contenders for the papacy include Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, known for his progressive stance, and Cardinal Pietro Parolin, a seasoned Vatican diplomat.
• The election will follow strict conclave protocols in the Sistine Chapel, with no outside contact allowed and black or white smoke signaling voting outcomes.