Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, known for his pastoral approach and peace-making efforts, is considered a potential successor to Pope Francis. His work with the Community of Sant’Egidio has shaped his career, focusing on aiding the marginalized and mediating international conflicts. Despite his reputation for compassion and dialogue, his association with Sant’Egidio and familial connections within the Vatican have sparked concerns about external influence. Appointed by Francis as president of the Italian Bishops’ Conference, Zuppi initiated an inquiry into clergy sexual abuse, although its limited scope drew criticism. His actions have shown a commitment to reconciliation and dialogue, reflecting the values of Pope Francis' papacy.

Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, formerly Archbishop of Bologna, is recognized for his alignment with Pope Francis' vision of reaching out to disenfranchised groups, including LGBTQ Catholics. His humility is evident in his lifestyle choices, such as using a bicycle for transportation instead of adopting the more luxurious options available to him.

Zuppi's extensive involvement with the Community of Sant’Egidio, a Catholic charity focused on aiding the poor and promoting peace, has been pivotal in his career. His role in the 1992 peace negotiations in Mozambique highlights his dedication to resolving conflicts through dialogue.

In 2023, Pope Francis appointed Zuppi as a peace envoy to mediate between Ukraine and Russia. Although he did not achieve a peace agreement, his efforts were lauded for fostering international dialogue and facilitating humanitarian exchanges between the two nations.

Despite his achievements, Zuppi's close ties with the influential Community of Sant’Egidio raise concerns among some cardinals about potential external control over the papacy. His rapid rise through the Vatican ranks is partly attributed to his family's historical connections within the Church.

As the president of the Italian Bishops’ Conference, Zuppi initiated an inquiry into sexual abuse by clergy. While the initial report was criticized for its lack of depth, it represented a significant step forward in addressing this issue within Italy, which had previously seen little public accountability.

Critics acknowledge that Zuppi's approach to confronting difficult issues and engaging with opposing perspectives is indicative of his broader commitment to reconciliation. His diplomatic skills are seen as integral to his potential as a future leader of the Catholic Church.

Zuppi's personal and professional life reflects a synthesis of compassion, humility, and a commitment to social justice, mirroring the principles of Pope Francis. His potential election as pope suggests a continuation of these values within the Vatican's leadership.