The Vatican has announced that the conclave to elect Pope Francis's successor will begin on May 7. Here's a look at the key facts about the conclave, one of the oldest and most secretive elections in the world.
Roman Catholic cardinals will gather in the Sistine Chapel starting May 7 to elect the 267th pontiff and successor to Pope Francis. A total of 135 cardinals, aged under 80 at the time of Francis’s death, are eligible to participate, though it's uncertain if all will attend.
Cardinals aged 80 or over can participate in daily meetings called general congregations, but cannot vote. The conclave will take place in the Sistine Chapel, with cardinals isolated from the outside world during the process. Communication devices such as phones, TV, and the internet are strictly forbidden.
The history of the conclave dates back to 1241, with its name originating from the Latin term “cum clave,” meaning “with a key.” Over the years, conclaves have varied in length, with the most recent one in 2013 lasting just two days. Ballots are held twice daily, with votes burned to produce either black or white smoke, indicating whether a decision has been reached.
Once a pope is chosen, a senior cardinal announces the new leader to the world with the Latin phrase "Habemus Papam" and reveals the pope’s chosen name. The newly elected pope then addresses the public in St. Peter's Square and delivers the first "Urbi et Orbi" blessing.
For the first time in history, an American has been chosen to lead the Catholic Church, as Cardinal Robert Prevost is named pope.
Black smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel on Thursday, signalling that the cardinals have not yet elected a new pope as the secretive Vatican conclave continues into its second day.
Cardinals from 70 nations have gathered in Vatican City to begin the historic conclave to elect the next pope, following the death of Pope Francis 17 days ago. This conclave is the most geographically diverse in Church history, showcasing Francis’ legacy of inclusivity.
Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, the Catholic Church is preparing for one of its most ancient and secretive traditions: the papal conclave. This process to elect the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church combines centuries-old rituals with modern security measures to ensure
As the world mourns Pope Francis, attention turns to the cardinals known as papabili — those considered possible successors. From Europe to Africa, here are the key names being discussed ahead of the next conclave.
Landslides and flash floods caused by days of heavy monsoon rain have killed at least 22 people in India’s northeast, officials said.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Saturday that the border conflict with Thailand “must be resolved with patience and through legal and diplomatic channels.”
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi spoke by phone with IAEA Director Rafael Mariano Grossi, warning that any political actions against Iran at next week’s Board of Governors meeting would have consequences.
Türkiye expressed deep sorrow Saturday over the devastating floods in Nigeria’s Niger State, which have claimed over 150 lives.
A bridge collapse in the Vygonichsky district of Russia’s Bryansk region, near the Ukrainian border, caused a train derailment and a traffic accident early Sunday, killing at least seven people and leaving 30 injured, according to emergency services.
On May 28, the inauguration ceremony of Lachin International Airport was held.
A car drove into crowds of Liverpool fans celebrating the club’s Premier League title in the city centre on Monday evening, injuring dozens including 4 children. A 53-year-old man believed to be the driver was arrested at the scene.
EU ministers have greenlit a massive €150 billion defense investment fund—dubbed the Security Action for Europe (SAFE)—as the bloc ramps up its military readiness in response to Russia’s aggression and growing uncertainty over U.S. security guarantees.
Brazil’s economy is expected to have regained momentum in the first quarter of 2025, driven by a surge in household spending and private investment, according to a Reuters poll of economists conducted from May 21–26.
An international academic conference titled "Islamophobia: Exposing Prejudice and Destroying Stigma" has officially opened in the capital of Azerbaijan, bringing together global scholars, experts, and policymakers to address the rise and consequences of anti-Muslim discrimination.
Türkiye’s first floating natural gas production platform, Osman Gazi, reached Filyos Port in Zonguldak on May 31.
Authorities in Whatcom County, Washington, issued a warning Friday after a truck carrying honey bee hives overturned near the Canadian border, initially prompting fears that millions of bees had been released.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will travel to Washington next week to meet U.S. President Donald Trump.
Landslides and flash floods caused by days of heavy monsoon rain have killed at least 22 people in India’s northeast, officials said.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Saturday that the border conflict with Thailand “must be resolved with patience and through legal and diplomatic channels.”
Landslides and flash floods caused by days of heavy monsoon rain have killed at least 22 people in India’s northeast, officials said.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Saturday that the border conflict with Thailand “must be resolved with patience and through legal and diplomatic channels.”
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi spoke by phone with IAEA Director Rafael Mariano Grossi, warning that any political actions against Iran at next week’s Board of Governors meeting would have consequences.
Türkiye expressed deep sorrow Saturday over the devastating floods in Nigeria’s Niger State, which have claimed over 150 lives.
A bridge collapse in the Vygonichsky district of Russia’s Bryansk region, near the Ukrainian border, caused a train derailment and a traffic accident early Sunday, killing at least seven people and leaving 30 injured, according to emergency services.
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