Context:

The selection of the next Pope following Pope Francis' funeral is a complex process with no clear front-runner, due to the diversity of the College of Cardinals. Cardinal Pietro Parolin from Italy and Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle from the Philippines are among the most mentioned candidates, reflecting different potential directions for the church. Cardinal Parolin is seen as a competent bureaucratic leader, while Cardinal Tagle is known for his personable approach and alignment with Francis' focus on the poor. Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo from Congo and Cardinal Anders Arborelius from Sweden are also potential contenders, with Ambongo representing a possibility for an African Pope and Arborelius advocating for inclusivity and dialogue. Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline from France and Cardinal Charles Maung Bo from Myanmar are noted for their work in interreligious dialogue and peace efforts, respectively, though their candidacies face historical and political challenges.

Dive Deeper:

• Cardinal Pietro Parolin, known for his cautious demeanor and bureaucratic skills, is a leading compromise candidate, although his lack of charisma and global symbolism differentiates him from Pope Francis. He has enacted Francis' vision but has faced criticism for his comments on same-sex marriage and his role in church negotiations with China.

• Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle, from the Philippines, is a liberal-leaning candidate aligned with Francis' focus on the marginalized and developing countries. Known as the 'Asian Francis,' he has been criticized for his handling of clerical sexual abuse and the drug war in the Philippines.

• Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, representing the vibrant Catholic communities in Africa, has been a close associate of Francis and part of the Council of Cardinals. Despite his opposition to Francis' progressive rulings, he remains a potential candidate for breaking the European tradition.

• Cardinal Anders Arborelius, Sweden's first Catholic cardinal, emphasizes building bridges in a polarized world and supporting migrants. Despite his age and the secular nature of Sweden, his focus on inclusivity and dialogue makes him a contender.

• Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline from France has a background in interreligious dialogue and theological knowledge, aligning with Francis' openness. His chances are affected by historical biases against French candidates since the 14th century.

• Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Myanmar, a delicate diplomat, has been outspoken about peace and dialogue post-military coup and has defended persecuted minorities like the Rohingya, despite the risk of backlash from Myanmar's Buddhist majority.

• The conclave is unpredictable with a diverse group of new cardinals, making it challenging to forecast the next Pope, as demonstrated by the unexpected election of Pope Francis in 2013.