The College of Cardinals, comprising 135 electors from 71 countries, is set to gather for the conclave that will choose the next Pope. The majority of the cardinals (108) were appointed by Pope Francis, while others come from Benedict XVI and St. John Paul II.
A significant shift has occurred in the College of Cardinals under Pope Francis’ leadership, with more representation from non-European countries. This trend reflects the Pope’s efforts to prioritize the global south and move the center of gravity of Catholicism toward the periphery. For the first time, 12 nations will be represented by their native Cardinal electors.
The youngest cardinal is Mikola Bychok (45), while the oldest is Carlos Osoro Sierra (79). The most represented birth year group is 1947, with 13 cardinals aged or approaching 78. There are also Cardinals belonging to various religious orders, including Salesians, Jesuits, and Franciscans.
A total of 53 cardinals from Europe will attend the conclave, representing a significant weight in the College. However, the “rest of the world” now clearly surpasses Europe, with the Americas significantly increasing their representation.
The attendance at the Conclave has been impacted by two health-related absences, reducing the number of eligible voters to 133. The outcome of the election will be influenced by various factors beyond geographical representation, but its global implications cannot be overlooked.
Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-04/conclave-who-will-elect-the-next-pope.html