Pontificate of Leo XIV: Catholic Church realigns competing political dynamics with core moral principles

On May 7-8, 2025, a papal conclave was held in the Vatican, which resulted in the election of Robert Francis Prevost as the new pope, who took the name Leo XIV in his new position.

The election of Leo XIV demonstrated the Vatican’s desire to reconsider its international role and assert geopolitical autonomy in the face of a systemic crisis in the global order.

The Vatican uses its moral authority to influence beyond political positions. This allows it to go beyond political doctrines, offer alternative forms of global influence, and promote the moral consolidation of societies.