Pope Francis’s state funeral is set to become a landmark global event, as world leaders, royals, and dignitaries from across continents prepare to gather at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City on Saturday at 10 AM local time.
The occasion not only marks a solemn farewell to the Catholic Church’s beloved pontiff but also creates a unique opportunity for high-level diplomacy reminiscent of the 2005 funeral of Pope John Paul II.
Dubbed the “diplomatic event of the year” by the University of Southern California’s Center for Public Diplomacy, that historic event brought together hundreds of world figures—a legacy that continues with Pope Francis’s funeral.
Among the confirmed attendees is Indian President Droupadi Murmu, who will represent India and offer her respects to the late Pope. The United Kingdom will send Prime Minister Keir Starmer alongside Prince William, while Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva—leader of the world’s largest Catholic nation—will also be present. Brazil has declared a seven-day mourning period in honor of Pope Francis.
United States President Donald Trump, attending his first foreign trip since the start of his second term, is set to join the service as well. His presence underscores the significance the U.S. places on the late pontiff’s influence on global peace and human rights.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., representing a nation with over 80% Catholic population, will also attend the funeral. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and UN Secretary-General António Guterres are expected to join a host of European leaders at the Vatican.
While the event will be well-attended, some notable absences have been confirmed. Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend; the Kremlin announced he had conveyed his condolences through an official message to the Catholic Church’s interim leader. Similarly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be absent, with Israel’s representation delegated to Ambassador Yaron Sideman.
Security is expected to be tight, with Italian and Vatican officials working closely to manage the influx of dignitaries and the anticipated crowds of mourners.
As the Catholic world and global community bid farewell to Pope Francis, the funeral stands as a testament to his far-reaching legacy—a religious leader whose voice resonated across borders, and whose impact on diplomacy, faith, and social justice was profound. The gathering of world leaders will not only honor his life but may also set the stage for significant behind-the-scenes diplomatic interactions.
