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Vatican City, 26 April 2025Following the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, 21 April 2025, from a stroke and subsequent cardiac arrest, the Catholic Church prepares for a conclave to elect his successor. The conclave, expected to convene between 6 and 12 May, will see approximately 135 cardinals under the age of 80 gather in the Sistine Chapel to choose the next Bishop of Rome. But why does this small group, rather than the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, hold the responsibility for selecting the Pope?

The conclave system, formalised in the 13th century, traces its origins to the early Christian Church, where bishops and senior clergy appointed leaders. This hierarchical structure positions cardinals—seen as successors to the apostles—as representatives of the global Catholic community. The process reflects centuries of tradition, ensuring continuity in the Church’s governance.

Theologically, the Catholic Church believes the Holy Spirit guides the cardinals in their decision-making. This sacred discernment, rooted in the concept of apostolic succession, entrusts a small, experienced group with the task of selecting a leader who embodies the Church’s spiritual and pastoral mission. A global vote, by contrast, risks diluting this divine focus with secular influences.

With over 1.4 billion Catholics spread across the globe, organising a worldwide election would be a logistical nightmare. The costs, infrastructure, and time required would be immense, and ensuring fairness and security would prove challenging. Moreover, such a process could expose the election to manipulation, misinformation, or interference from governments and media.

Cardinals, appointed by previous popes, hail from diverse regions, offering a broad representation of the Church’s global character. Their experience and deep understanding of the Church’s needs equip them to evaluate candidates thoughtfully. This system, while not perfectly inclusive, balances geographic diversity with practical decision-making.

Safeguarding Independence

The conclave’s secretive nature is a cornerstone of its integrity. Held in the sealed Sistine Chapel, with no external communication permitted, the process shields cardinals from outside pressures. A global election, open to public campaigns and media scrutiny, would struggle to maintain such autonomy, potentially turning a spiritual decision into a political spectacle.

A Delicate Balance

While a universal Catholic vote might seem more democratic, it could erode the conclave’s spiritual and traditional foundations. The current system, though exclusive, prioritises discernment, independence, and the Church’s apostolic heritage. As the conclave prepares to elect the 267th Pope, the world watches a process that has shaped the Catholic Church for centuries.