The process of selecting the next pope is a significant event that will be decided by 133 cardinals beginning their conclave in the Sistine Chapel, convened at 16:30 local time. These cardinals, all under the age of 80, will engage in discussions and cast votes until one candidate receives support from two-thirds of the group. The outcome of this conclave will have a profound impact on the Catholic Church and its 1.4 billion baptized followers worldwide. With the majority of these cardinals having been appointed by Pope Francis, the election is unpredictable, and their decision will reflect a broad global perspective. For the first time, less than half of the voting cardinals will be European, reflecting a shift in the Church's demographic and geographical focus. The college of cardinals is diverse, comprising both progressive and traditionalist members, which adds to the complexity of predicting the next pope. Many are speculating whether the next leader could come from Africa, Asia, or America, or if it will be someone from within the established Vatican administration. Below are some of the prominent names being considered as potential successors to Pope Francis. Cardinal Pietro Parolin from Italy, aged 70, is one of the notable candidates. As the Vatican's secretary of state, he served as Pope Francis’ chief advisor and effectively acted as a deputy pope. Known for his diplomatic skills and global outlook, Parolin is seen by some as a frontrunner. However, his critics argue that he prioritizes diplomacy over strict adherence to Catholic dogma. Parolin has also faced criticism from the Catholic watchdog organization Bishop Accountability for allegedly suppressing information on abuse. Despite the odds favoring him, there is an old Italian saying that cautions against assuming the outcome of a conclave: "He who enters a conclave as a pope, leaves it as a cardinal." Another potential candidate is Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle from the Philippines, aged 67. Known for his pastoral experience and being dubbed the "Asian Francis," Tagle is considered a moderate within the Church. He has been vocal about social issues and has called for a reassessment of the Church's stance towards marginalized groups. Despite his progressive views, Tagle is conservative on issues like abortion and euthanasia. His handling of certain issues, such as the drug war deaths in the Philippines, has attracted criticism for not being vocal enough. Nonetheless, his candidacy remains strong, especially with the support of the Filipino cardinals. Cardinal Robert Prevost from the United States, aged 69, is also among the contenders. As the prefect of the Vatican's Dicastery for Bishops, he plays a crucial role in selecting future bishops. Prevost's background as a missionary in Peru and his leadership in the Pontifical Commission for Latin America are notable. However, allegations of covering up sexual abuse during his tenure as archbishop in Peru could pose challenges to his candidacy. Cardinal Peter Turkson from Ghana, aged 76, is an influential figure who could become the first African pope in 1,500 years. Known for his energetic presence and conservative leanings, Turkson has also opposed the criminalization of gay relationships in Africa. Despite claiming not to aspire to the papacy, his candidacy remains strong, especially given the Church's growth in Africa. Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo from the Democratic Republic of Congo, aged 65, is another African candidate. As the Archbishop of Kinshasa, Ambongo is a cultural conservative and has been a vocal advocate for the Church against the backdrop of persecution by jihadist groups. His support for religious plurality and his views on interfaith dialogue could influence his standing among the cardinals. From Europe, Cardinal Peter Erdo from Hungary, aged 72, is a well-regarded figure. Known for his work on Catholic relations with the Orthodox Church, Erdo is considered a potential compromise candidate. His conservative views on family and his navigation of Hungary's political landscape under Prime Minister Viktor Orban are notable aspects of his profile. Cardinal Mario Grech from Malta, aged 68, aligns with Pope Francis’ vision of empowering rank-and-file Catholics. As the secretary-general of the Synod of Bishops, Grech has been instrumental in promoting the opinions of individual believers within the Church's governance. His evolving views on social issues may appeal to those looking for continuity of Francis' reforms. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi from Italy, aged 69, has a