Vatican Prepares for Diverse Papal Conclave

The Vatican is set to begin a papal conclave on May 7 to elect the 267th pope following Pope Francis's death. This conclave will see 133 cardinal electors—about 80% appointed by Francis—participate in the secretive voting process in the Sistine Chapel, with a two-thirds majority required for a decision. Smoke signals from the iconic chapel chimney—black for no decision, white for a successful election—will inform crowds in St. Peter's Square and observers worldwide. The process, reformed after the prolonged 13th-century election of Pope Gregory X, now features a more geographically diverse group of electors, particularly from Asia and Africa. The last two conclaves were resolved by the second day, reflecting increased efficiency. These developments underscore both the enduring tradition and the evolving global nature of papal succession.