How many cardinals make up the Conclave, what are their nationalities and how old are they?
On May 7, 133 cardinals from 71 countries will gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect the new Pope, in a conclave marked by diversity and experience.
The conclave taking place on May 7, 2025, will be one of the most diverse and global in the history of the Catholic Church. With 134 cardinal electors (after Antonio Cañizares Llovera stepped down) from 71 countries, this event reflects the universality of the Church and its presence across the globe. The Sistine Chapel, the setting for this important occasion, will host cardinals from every continent, including nations that have historically had little representation in the College of Cardinals.
Continental representation
Europe continues to have the largest representation, with 53 cardinals, followed by the Americas with 37 (16 from North America, 4 from Central America, and 17 from South America). Asia has 23 cardinals, Africa 18, and Oceania 4. This geographic distribution demonstrates a balance between regions, although Europe still holds considerable influence in the election process.
- Europe: 52 cardinals
- Americas: 37 cardinals
- Asia: 23 cardinals
- Africa: 18 cardinals
- Oceania: 4 cardinals
- Total: 134 cardinals
Age and experience of the cardinals
The average age of the electing cardinals is 72, with a notable presence of younger and seasoned cardinals. The youngest cardinal is Mikola Bychok, 45, from Ukraine, serving as the eparchial bishop of Saints Peter and Paul of Melbourne for Ukrainians. On the other end, the oldest cardinal is Carlos Osoro Sierra of Spain, age 79, who will turn 80 on May 16. This mix of youth and experience is crucial for the Church’s future, offering both fresh perspectives and deep wisdom.
The influence of Pope Francis
Pope Francis has had a major impact on the College of Cardinals, having appointed around 80% of those participating in this conclave. His vision of a more inclusive and representative Church is evident in this group, which includes cardinals from Haiti, Cape Verde, Papua New Guinea, Sweden, Luxembourg, and South Sudan—countries with first-time representation in a conclave.
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