Easter Monday 2025 marked a somber day for Christian communities around the world, which is estimated 1.4 billion followers.
On April 21, the Vatican announced the passing of Pope Francis (born Jorge Mario Bergoglio) at the age of 88. Elected in 2013, he served as the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church, Bishop of Rome, and Head of State of the Vatican. Prior to his papacy, he was Archbishop of Buenos Aires.
As both a spiritual leader and political figure, Pope Francis's death carries significant geopolitical implications. His passing comes at a sensitive time for international affairs, with ongoing conflicts and strained diplomatic relations. The forthcoming Conclave will elect not only the Church’s next spiritual leader, but also a key actor on the world stage.
Major International Summit
Pope Francis’s funeral will take place on Saturday, April 26, at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The event is
expected to be one of the most significant international gatherings of the year, drawing numerous world leaders. European attendees include European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
From beyond Europe, U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have confirmed their attendance, as have Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and his wife Janja. Argentine President Javier Milei, despite past public criticism of Pope Francis, will also be present. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed his participation on Tuesday, April 22.
The funeral serves as a geopolitical crossroads, revealing both alliances and tensions as global leaders adopt a pragmatic posture. Papal funerals traditionally draw intense media scrutiny and diplomatic attention, making both attendance and absence symbolically significant.
Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s absence underscores the Vatican’s stance on the war in Ukraine and reflects broader geopolitical fractures. The moment invites reflection—and potentially repositioning within the international order.
Soft and Hard Power
Since Monday, the question dominating global discourse has been: Who will be the next Pope? It is a legitimate and consequential consideration. As both a spiritual leader and a head of sta te with observer status at the United Nations, the Pope holds significant influence over international affairs.
Though the choice lies beyond the reach of world leaders, the outcome will carry global implications. The ideological direction of the Church—liberal or conservative—could shift markedly, shaping its engagement on issues from human rights to climate policy. With diplomatic ties to over 180 countries, the Vatican often plays a discreet but pivotal role in global diplomacy. The interregnum may temporarily reduce or redirect that influence.
The selection of a pope from the Asia-Pacific or Africa would also send a strong signal, potentially amplifying the Church’s presence in regions where its geo-political and social influence is growing. This decision will ripple through policy arenas in Latin America, Africa, and Europe, where the Church remains a key actor.