As the conclave to select Pope Francis’s successor approaches this week, the election process remains shrouded in secrecy, leaving speculation about who will take over the papacy. While no official campaigning or list of candidates exists, here are 16 potential contenders, or “papabili,” divided by region, who are being closely watched.
AFRICA
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Peter Turkson (Ghana), 76, Archbishop emeritus of Cape Coast
A key figure in the Church, Turkson has long been mentioned as a possible first black pope. A polyglot and former head of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, he’s known for his work on human rights and migration. His position on social issues has sparked debate, but he remains a significant figure. -
Robert Sarah (Guinea), 79, former Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments
Known for his conservative views, Sarah is backed by those seeking a return to traditional Church teachings. His opposition to progressive reforms could make him a controversial candidate. -
Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Democratic Republic of Congo), 65, Archbishop of Kinshasa
A strong advocate for peace in his conflict-ridden country, Ambongo is an influential African leader and was the only African cardinal on Pope Francis’s advisory council. He could potentially be Africa’s first pope.
EUROPE
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Pietro Parolin (Italy), 70, Vatican Secretary of State
The Vatican’s second-in-command for nearly the entirety of Pope Francis’s papacy, Parolin is widely considered a frontrunner. He’s known for his diplomatic skills, particularly in the controversial 2018 agreement with China. -
Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy), 60, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem
Serving as the top Catholic authority in the Middle East, Pizzaballa has called for peace amidst the region’s conflicts. His 2023 elevation to cardinal has furthered his prominence. -
Matteo Maria Zuppi (Italy), 69, Archbishop of Bologna
Zuppi, Pope Francis’s peace envoy for Ukraine, has gained significant attention for his diplomatic efforts and work with the poor and marginalized. -
Claudio Gugerotti (Italy), 69
An expert on Eastern Churches and former nuncio in several countries, Gugerotti’s experience makes him a key player in the papal race. -
Jean-Marc Aveline (France), 66, Archbishop of Marseille
Aveline is known for his advocacy for migrants and interfaith dialogue. His intellectual approach and people skills have earned him attention. -
Anders Arborelius (Sweden), 75, Bishop of Stockholm
The first Swedish cardinal, Arborelius is known for his staunch defense of Church doctrine, particularly on controversial issues like same-sex unions. -
Mario Grech (Malta), 68, Bishop emeritus of Gozo
Grech is a potential compromise candidate with experience in balancing the Church’s open approach while respecting conservative concerns. -
Peter Erdo (Hungary), 72, Metropolitan Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest
A respected canon law expert, Erdo has earned both praise and criticism for his stance on key issues like gay marriage and divorcees who remarry. -
Jean-Claude Hollerich (Luxembourg), 66, Archbishop of Luxembourg
A Jesuit and theological adviser to Pope Francis, Hollerich is known for his push for laypeople’s involvement in the Church and his openness to societal changes.
ASIA
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Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines), 67, Metropolitan Archbishop emeritus of Manila
A popular figure, Tagle has been a consistent advocate for the poor and marginalized. His approachable nature and focus on social justice make him a key contender. -
Charles Maung Bo (Myanmar), 76, Archbishop of Yangon
Bo has been a champion for reconciliation in Myanmar and has voiced strong support for persecuted minorities like the Rohingya.
AMERICAS
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Robert Francis Prevost (United States), 69, Archbishop-Bishop emeritus of Chiclayo
Previously a missionary in Peru, Prevost was appointed prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in 2023. His role in advising the pope on bishop appointments gives him significant influence. -
Timothy Dolan (United States), 75, Archbishop of New York
Known for his theological conservatism, Dolan has embraced outreach efforts to the growing Hispanic population in New York while holding firm on issues like abortion.
As the conclave nears, these 16 cardinals, representing diverse regions and viewpoints, could shape the future of the Catholic Church.