First Asian or black pope? These are the top contenders to replace Pope Francis

Following the death of Pope Francis at 88, the Catholic Church now turns its attention to the question of who will succeed him as the next pope. As Cardinals gather in Rome for the Papal Conclave, a range of candidates with diverse backgrounds and theological stances are being considered.

Here’s a look at the top contenders for the papacy, each of whom could shape the Church's future in different ways.

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Peter Turkson: the first black pope in centuries?

As a pioneer for African representation in the Catholic Church, if Turkson is elected as a successor of Pope Francis, he would become the first black pope in centuries. Cardinal Peter Turkson, from Ghana, was at one point the bookies favorite when Pope Francis was elected in 2013.

While he states that marriage is between a man and a woman, he argues that the laws in many African countries are much too strict. However, he has been very vocal on issues like climate crisis, poverty and economic justice.

Luis Antonio Tagle: the first Asian pope?

Luis Antonio Tagle is the former Archibishop of Manila and one of the favorite candidates as a Pope. If he does get elected, ho would become the first Asian pope.

As Asia is one of the regions with the fastest-growing Catholic population, Tagle's candidacy is strong considering his position. Although he has conservative opinions regarding abortion, he has expressed a deep concern over the Church's treatment of the LGBTQ+ community and divorced couples.

Pietro Parolin: Vatican's Secretary of State

Cardinal Pietro Parolin is the Vatican's Cardinal Secretary of State. As he had worked closely with Pope Francis, he is seen as the closest thing the Vatican has to a 'continuity candidate'.

He is not viewed as a liberal per se, as when Ireland voted in 2015 to legalize same-sex marriage, Parolin described it as 'a defeat for humanity'; but he has been a papal representative regarded as trusted by many diplomats. However, he had "fallen from grace" as he was the key figure in the 2018 agreement between the Vatican and China, which many viewed as a sell-out.

Robert Sarah: The conservative contender

Cardinal Robert Sarah is a strong conservative voice within the Catholic Church and has frequently voiced opposition against modern social movements including but not limited to gender ideology and Islamic fundamentalism.

While he has been considered as a potential candidate for the papacy, his age may be against him. However, that may not be important for those seeking a pope with strong conservative values.

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Other Contenders:

• Peter Erdo (72) from Hungary is known for his conservative views, especially on issues like remarriage and divorce, and could represent a return to traditional values.
• Jose Tolentino (59) from Portugal is seen as a younger option, advocating for the Church to engage more with modern culture and media.
• Matteo Zuppi (69), a Vatican peace envoy for Ukraine, has become a respected figure within the Church, though his diplomatic work with Russia has generated mixed reactions.
• Mario Grech (68) has supported Pope Francis’ more inclusive vision for the Church and could continue that work as pope.
• Vincent Nichols (79), from the UK, has an outside chance of becoming the first English pope since the 12th century.