The Monocle Daily
The Vatican conclave begins and the papal role in conflict
May 7, 2025
Yossi Mekelberg, a senior fellow at Chatham House specializing in conflict, and political reporter Nadine Batchelor-Hunt dive into the Vatican conclave's role in global affairs. They discuss how the church might act as a peacemaker in conflicts that seem endless and explore the challenges it faces with modern social issues. They also critique media attention disparities in global crises, contrasting the spotlight on Ukraine with the overlooked plight in Sudan, highlighting the complexities of public perception in today's world.
39:24
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Quick takeaways
- The papal conclave's new leader could greatly influence global conflict resolution and the Catholic Church's moral authority worldwide.
- Emerging representation from the Global South among Cardinals may reshape the Church's diplomatic approach and address contemporary challenges.
Deep dives
The Role of the Modern Papacy in Global Affairs
The potential impact of the papal conclave on global geopolitics is significant, as it involves choosing a leader for 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. The expectation is that the new pope can serve as a moral compass, particularly in conflict resolution and diplomacy. This notion is underscored by past popes who have influenced peace processes, especially regarding the Middle East conflicts. However, public interest also reflects a cultural engagement with the Vatican's historical continuity and ceremonial traditions.
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