Cardinal Parolin emerges as leading contender for next pope

What do you need to know?

• Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, marking the beginning of the sede vacante period in the Catholic Church.
• Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, is one of the most frequently mentioned candidates for the new pope.
• The conclave to elect the new pope will begin between May 6 and May 11, 2025.

"Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta," reported the official Vatican News service.

Pietro Parolin, born on January 17, 1955, in Schiavon in the Veneto region, rose from a humble seminary in Vicenza to one of the most influential positions in the Catholic Church. His life and diplomatic career, rich with significant achievements, make him a unique figure in the context of a potential pontificate.

Pietro Parolin was born into a simple, deeply Catholic family. His father, a hardware store manager, died in a car accident in 1965 when Pietro was only 10 years old, deeply affecting his childhood. His mother, a primary school teacher, raised him along with his siblings—a sister and a brother.

At just 14 years old, Parolin entered the seminary in Vicenza, marking the beginning of his journey to priesthood. He was ordained as a priest on April 27, 1980, by Bishop Arnoldo Onisto, becoming incardinated in the Diocese of Vicenza.

After ordination, Parolin continued his education, earning a doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical Gregorian University and training at the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy, which prepares clergy for diplomatic service.

Parolin began his service in the Vatican's diplomatic corps in 1986, working first in Nigeria and then in Mexico (1989–1992). In Mexico, he played a crucial role in negotiations that led to the legal recognition of the Catholic Church by the state in 1992 and the establishment of diplomatic relations after a 130-year hiatus. These successes caught the Vatican's attention, and Parolin returned to the Secretariat of State, where he handled relations with Spain, Andorra, Italy, and San Marino.

From 2002 to 2009, he served as undersecretary for relations with states, effectively making him the "deputy foreign minister" of the Vatican. During this time, he dealt with sensitive issues such as negotiations with Vietnam, paving the way for full diplomatic relations, and relations with China, where in 2005, direct contact was reestablished.

Parolin also played a role in the release of 15 British sailors held by Iran in 2007 and supported efforts for the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI appointed him as apostolic nuncio to Venezuela and titular archbishop of Acquapendente. The mission in Venezuela was challenging due to tensions between the Church and the government of Hugo Chávez, but Parolin demonstrated effective mediation skills.

On August 31, 2013, Pope Francis appointed Parolin as Secretary of State of the Holy See, making him one of the most important figures in the Vatican. He officially assumed the office on November 18, 2013, becoming the youngest Secretary of State since Cardinal Eugenio Pacelli (later Pius XII) in 1929. In 2014, Francis created him a cardinal priest, and in 2018, he was elevated to the rank of cardinal bishop, highlighting his exceptional status in the church hierarchy.

As Secretary of State, often referred to as the "Vatican's prime minister," Parolin is responsible for the foreign policy of the Holy See and the coordination of the Roman Curia's activities. His work focuses on promoting peace and dialogue in international conflicts.

He pays special attention to the situation in Ukraine, where he emphasizes Ukrainians' right to defense while simultaneously calling for dialogue and a de-escalation of the conflict. In 2025, in an interview with "La Repubblica," Parolin expressed concern about the risk of escalation of the war in Ukraine, noting that "peace is built patiently, day by day, with mutual respect."

Parolin is also involved in negotiations with China, particularly regarding the appointment of bishops, resulting in the signing of a provisional agreement in 2018, extended in subsequent years. Although this agreement generates controversy among some Catholics, it is seen as a step towards greater openness of the Church in China.

His approach to diplomacy is characterized by pragmatism and moderation. Parolin supports multilateralism, opposes the arms race, and promotes disarmament, particularly in the context of nuclear weapons.

Despite numerous achievements, Parolin's career is not without controversy. The biggest blemish on his reputation is the financial scandal involving the purchase of real estate in London by the Secretariat of State. The transaction, which took place between 2014 and 2018, resulted in financial losses for the Vatican and allegations of misconduct.

Although Parolin was not directly accused, some critics question his oversight of subordinates. In 2024, during the trial related to this case, Parolin confirmed filing complaints to prosecute the crimes in which the Secretariat of State was a victim.

Additionally, some observers raise doubts about his leadership abilities, suggesting that he may lack the charisma needed to lead the Church during challenging times. However, Parolin's supporters emphasize his discretion and effectiveness in working behind the scenes, making him a "man of compromise."

Following Pope Francis' death on April 21, 2025, the Catholic Church entered the sede vacante period, and Parolin's name appears among the favorites to take the Holy See. His diplomatic experience, moderate views, and closeness to the line of Francis make him an attractive candidate for cardinals seeking continuity of the current pontificate. Parolin's Italian heritage is also an asset, considering the historical preference for popes from Italy.

On social media platforms like X, Parolin is described as "Francis' right hand" and a "moderate candidate", reflecting the common perception of his persona. Users point to his pro-Palestinian and pro-Ukrainian stance and his vision of Christianity as a force strengthening Europe.

However, some highlight his cautious approach to gender ideology, which might draw controversy among more liberal circles.

Parolin is seen as a candidate who could provide a few years of respite after Francis' dynamic pontificate. His mediation skills and experience in managing the Roman Curia are key arguments in favor of his candidacy. However, the competition in the conclave, which will commence between May 6 and May 11, 2025, according to the rules, will be intense, with other names like Cardinal Tagle and Erdő also being mentioned.